A global director shares her personal experience of overcoming alcoholism while successfully navigating her career and family life, shedding light on the often-overlooked signs of ‘functioning alcoholism’ and the critical need for support.

The Illusion of Control

The stereotypical image of an alcoholic – someone visibly struggling – is often inaccurate. Addiction frequently affects individuals who appear to have it all together, maintaining demanding jobs and raising families. Serena Palmer, a global director for a sustainable energy company, experienced this firsthand.

Two Decades of Hidden Struggle

For two decades, Serena battled a hidden addiction to alcohol, binge-drinking several nights a week and experiencing blackouts, all while excelling in her career and raising a daughter. The normalization of social drinking, particularly the ‘wine o’clock’ culture, initially led her to believe her habits were not unusual.

A Wake-Up Call

A turning point came when Serena woke up in a police cell with no recollection of how she got there. The fear that she may have harmed her daughter during a blackout prompted her to seek help.

From Management to Recovery

Initially, Serena approached rehab with the goal of learning to ‘manage’ her drinking. However, through therapy, she realized the extent of her problem and the deceptive nature of ‘functioning alcoholism’. Now, two years sober, Serena works as an addiction coach.

Recognizing the Signs

Serena emphasizes that recognizing the problem is the first crucial step to recovery. Common misconceptions, like believing periods of abstinence disprove an addiction, can prevent individuals from seeking help.

Key Indicators of Alcohol Dependence

  • A constant preoccupation with alcohol, even during periods of sobriety.
  • Lying about drinking habits.
  • Altering plans to prioritize alcohol consumption.
  • Using alcohol to cope with difficult emotions.
  • Drinking at a faster pace than others.
  • Receiving feedback from others about problematic drinking behavior.

    • Serena highlights that rationalizing behavior and dismissing concerns from others are common traits. Alcoholics often exhibit a compulsion to continue drinking once they’ve started, losing control over their choices.

    The Power of Choice

    However, Serena emphasizes that individuals do have power over that first drink – the power to choose not to take it at all. Recognizing patterns, such as using alcohol as a coping mechanism, is vital.

    Serena’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that alcoholism can affect anyone, regardless of their outward appearance or social status. The key to recovery lies in acknowledging the problem, seeking support, and breaking the cycle of dependence.