Taylor Swift’s First Single from ‘TTPD’ Begs the Question: Is There Such a Thing as a ‘Functioning Alcoholic’?

Taylor Swift’s References to Drinking Habits in New Album

Taylor Swift’s fans have suspected the singer’s references to drinking habits in the first single from her new album, The Tortured Poets Department, are personal. The lyrics to the song “Fortnight” include the line, “I was a functioning alcoholic / ’til nobody noticed my new aesthetic.”

Alcohol use disorder affects people in different ways, and the term “alcoholic” can be both stigmatizing and lead to people not realizing they may have AUD, says Richard Piper, PhD, CEO of Alcohol Change UK, a nonprofit organization based in England and Wales.

People typically have an idea in their head of what an “alcoholic” looks like, he says.

“This stereotype can be a real problem. We might find ourselves drinking very heavily, in ways that are damaging our mental and physical health, but because we don’t match up to our mental image of an ‘alcoholic,’ we don’t see ourselves, and aren’t seen by others, as having a problem,” Dr. Piper says. “That’s a big barrier to getting help.”

Is ‘Functional’ Alcohol Use Disorder Possible?

“Often, even people close to them are unaware they have a problem,” Dr. Lander says, adding that this doesn’t last forever. “In the earlier stages of alcohol use disorder, it is easy for people to hide how much they drink, and for others to dismiss signs of problem drinking. But alcohol use disorder is progressive, and the symptoms will become increasingly obvious.”

Karl Sieg, MD, lead medical director with Evernorth Behavioral Health in Minnesota, who is board certified in addiction psychiatry, agrees that symptoms of AUD eventually become visible.

“Usually there is an inflection point where the person’s dependency progresses to a state where they can no longer hide the symptoms of alcohol use disorder,” he says.

Warning Signs of Not-So-Hidden Alcohol Use Disorder

According to Lander, one of the first signs a person may have AUD is if they are hiding their drinking, or how much they are drinking. They may also feel agitated or uncomfortable until they can get a drink, or drink at inappropriate times, such as in the morning.

Once the disease progresses, people with AUD may forget to pay their bills or forget to pick the kids up from their activities, says Dr. Sieg. They might be tardy more often, irritable, paranoid, or have difficulty remembering conversations.

People may lose friends over something they did while drinking, or get into legal trouble, such as driving under the influence (DUI).

“As a rule of thumb, one incident is a learning experience, multiple incidents indicate a problem,” Lander says.

The diagnostic criteria for AUD include symptoms of mild, moderate, or severe AUD, so there is a wide spectrum of what alcohol use disorder looks like.

“Instead of asking ourselves, ‘Am I an alcoholic?’ it’s better to ask, ‘Am I happy with my drinking?’” Piper says. “There’s no sudden moment when someone goes from being fine to having a problem, and you can get help at any point.”

How to Get Help for Problematic Drinking

If you find yourself drinking alcohol earlier in the day than you used to, hiding your drinking from others, or you are choosing drinking over tackling your responsibilities, it may be time to reach out for help, Piper says.

Just as AUD looks different in different people, so does the treatment plan each person needs.

The first step is to get an assessment from a substance use disorder specialist, says Lander.

“They can determine if there is a problem and what type of treatment may be needed. Treatment recommendations can run the gamut from inpatient treatment to community support activity,” he says, noting that even so-called “functional alcoholics” may need a period of detox in the hospital.

If you suspect someone in your life may have unhealthy drinking habits, approaching them about it can be difficult, says Stacey Rivenburg, PsyD, a psychologist advisor for the behavioral health managed care organization of AmeriHealth Caritas in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Approaching that person with compassion is key, she says. Using

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

The article discusses alcohol use disorder (AUD) and its impact on individuals’ health and well-being. SDG 3 aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

The article highlights the stigma and stereotypes associated with alcohol use disorder, which can prevent individuals from seeking help. SDG 10 aims to reduce inequalities and promote social inclusion.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol

The article emphasizes the importance of prevention and treatment for alcohol use disorder. It mentions that individuals with AUD may need different types of treatment, including detox in the hospital.

Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status

The article discusses the stigma associated with alcohol use disorder and how it can prevent individuals from seeking help. Target 10.2 aims to promote social inclusion and reduce discrimination based on various factors, including health conditions like AUD.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

The article does not explicitly mention specific indicators. However, potential indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets include:

• Number of people receiving treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD)
• Number of programs and initiatives aimed at preventing AUD
• Proportion of individuals with AUD who have access to appropriate treatment and support services
• Proportion of individuals with AUD who report reduced stigma and discrimination

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: everydayhealth.com

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