That is the frustrating problem for me--I don't have any real problems, except alcohol. I have a great life, I am very successful and well respected, I have a great family that loves me, I am a wealthy self made man, I have managed to avoid legal issues (DUI) but I cannot seem to get rid of the alcohol. I guess that makes me a "functional" alcoholic.
I know it is going to make me feel terrible when I drink. I know I am going to wake up hung over (and tell everyone I have a "migraine"), I know I am not going to feel well until about 2 pm, yet at 5 pm, Ill start again. I dont even get drunk anymore--so it does not even feel good while I am drinking.