Yeah I was a high functioning alcoholic for years. Got my MBA, my Accounting Certification, and became a finance director for a major multinational. Knew I had a drinking problem for years before I sought help, because I thought I had it under control since there were no negative consequences to my drinking. I was successful, while at the same time putting away a 20oz'er of hard liquor a night. The fact that I was an emotional mess was irrellevant.

The first time I entered treatment, all my friends and co-workers were shocked and horrified. None of them had a clue that I had a problem.

Gained some insight when I had my first withdrawal seizure in 05 and tried to quit for the first time, was unsuccessful, and went into treatment for the first time in 06. Had severe case of Paws post treatment combined with untreated mental illness so I relapsed almost immediately, and drank more and harder. Eventually lost the job. Been struggling with sobriety ever since. Currently trying again.

--splitimage