When it comes to alcoholism, many individuals often picture what they see portrayed in movies and mainstream media. This portrayal typically involves an older man stumbling home with no connections to his family, unable to hold down a job, and consistently spending money on booze. However, individuals struggling with alcoholism often do not fit into this box. They can be young, of any gender, and hiding behind the mask of partying and modern drinking culture. Overlooking these individuals because they do not fit the stereotype can result in deadly consequences.
Socially Acceptable Drinking
Often, signs of alcoholism are overlooked in individuals that do not fit the bill as a “stereotypical alcoholic.” This is especially true when it comes to younger individuals such as teens and college-age people. Due to party culture, college stereotypes, and more, most individuals do not think that their friend who drinks every day is an alcoholic. Instead, they write it off as “Oh, they’re in college. Let them have their fun,” and move on. However, this can place the person struggling in a precarious situation. They drink to cope with their problems because they don’t know any better, and no one calls them out for it because it is seen as normal. Pretty soon, they begin falling down the rabbit hole of addiction; this can have dire consequences if treatment is not sought out soon.
The Functioning Alcoholic
Those that struggle with excessive alcohol consumption often do not fit the stereotype portrayed in movies and other mainstream media. The majority can be classified as “functioning alcoholics,” meaning they can still keep up with their responsibilities, hold down a job, do well in school, and have seemingly healthy interpersonal relationships. While there are signs that can point to someone being a functioning alcoholic, these are often overlooked because the person is still fulfilling their daily obligations. By overlooking these warning signs, individuals can enable their loved ones to spiral down the path of addiction until the tipping point occurs. This can lead to devastating consequences for the person if help is not sought out.
People try to put addiction into neat boxes as a means of understanding the disease. These stereotypes typically come from mainstream media and can be harmful to those that are struggling that don’t fit the stereotype. Alta Loma Transformational Services wants to educate people on the signs of alcoholism and how to notice it in individuals that may seem okay. We offer comprehensive, individualized treatment programs to set you and your loved ones up for success in recovery. Call us today at (866) 457-3843 and start the road to healing.
