If there are high functioning non-alcoholics, why shouldn't there be high functioning alcoholics. Truth is some people function better than others. Maintaining a job house family while being a hungover drunk is really pretty high functioning, at least while it last. I had a very we'll respected drug & alcohol therapist basically laugh at me when I used the term on my first visit. Guess what - I did not go back. What a set back for me. Newcomers don't know that the term is looked upon with derision by old timers & really it is degrading to those of us who are seeking help before hitting rock bottom. Right now, functioning ( high, low or whatever I wanna call it) is the only thing keeping me going. I'm here so I can continue to function at this level & hopefully even better once I have some real sober time behind me. If I am still going to be considered alcoholic after say, 5, 10 or 15 years sober and I still have my great job home & family can I then call myself a high functioning alcoholic or do I have to give up hope of ever beings high functioning person just because I was once drinking too much and admitted I had a disease called alcoholism?