Summer brings aperitifs on sunny terraces, gardens, and city quays, where friends gather under late-evening sun and mild temperatures. These social rituals can be enjoyable, but they carry risks—including a subtle alcohol dependency known as functional alcoholism. Far from the stereotype of downing a bottle of vodka at dawn, this form hides in plain sight: occasional binges or a nightly drink 5-6 evenings a week.
To gauge if you're at risk—a rising concern—Dr. Iqbal Mohiuddi, a leading practitioner at a London clinic, recommends these four questions:
Have you ever told yourself you should drink less?
Have loved ones' comments on your drinking irritated you?
Have you felt guilty about your drinking or its aftermath?
Do you crave a morning drink to unwind?
Yes to even two suggests a potential issue (seek professional advice for confirmation). Dr. Mohiuddi explains that one-third to half his patients shatter the alcoholic cliché: "They thrive in high-stakes roles in London's City or media, where heavy, frequent drinking is normalized and expected. Habits build over years until hit with morning malaise, cravings, or partner ultimatums between them and alcohol."
Functional alcoholics often excel professionally despite excessive intake, fueling denial and evasion. Even abstaining mid-week but overindulging weekends inflicts serious harm. Vigilance matters more than abstinence: "The body processes one unit per hour—a small glass of wine or 25 cl of beer. Honor this limit," Dr. Mohiuddi advises.
