Sign you may be functioning alcoholic can be seen in pub during Christmas

An expert has revealed the one sign you could be a high-functioning alcoholic - and it can be spotted in the pub this Christmas.

With the festive season in full swing, many of us are heading out to pubs and bars to meet up with mates for Christmas drinks or for work parties.

However, if you've ever wondered if your - or somebody else's - relationship with alcohol is bordering on unhealthy, an expert has shared the signs of a high-functioning alcoholic, and it's something you may be able to spot at the pub.

Of course, many of us like to have a few drinks over the festive period, but if you're finding yourself drinking excessively on a regular basis, there could be a problem developing.

An expert has revealed the signs of a high functioning alcoholic (Getty Stock Photo)

What is a high-functioning alcoholic?

According to guidelines issued by the UK Addiction Treatment Centres, a functioning alcoholic is a 'person with an addiction to alcohol, but manages to go about their daily routine, therefore their drinking problem goes unseen'.

Essentially, the person can get on with their day-to-day life, all the while battling an addiction.

Key sign of someone being a high-functioning alcoholic

If you're concerned that your drinking habits could be becoming unhealthy, here is one simple sign you should be wary of.

According to an expert, the tell-tale sign of functional alcoholism is being unable to call it quits after one drink and instead finding excuses to stay out all night.

“Initially, they intend that they will just have one or possibly two, and they may sincerely wish to believe this and tell others in your company to reaffirm this belief,” the expert writes.

“But one will always turn into more as they will inevitably find an excuse to continue drinking, whether it be another round, chatting to a new person, or an offer on beverages such as ‘happy hour’.”

Signs of a high functioning alcoholic can be seen in the pub at Christmas (Getty Stock Photo)

The expert went on to add that as a high-functioning alcoholic, you may be aware of the issues in your relationship with drinking but could potentially make excuses to avoid talking about it due to 'deep-rooted anxiety'.

Justifications often made by high-functioning alcoholics often include phrases such as 'I work so hard. I am entitled to have fun' or 'pay the bills, take my kids to school, and get to work on time. Alcoholics can’t do those things'.

If you relate to any of the topics in this article, support can be found on Drinkline on 0300 123 1110. The confidential service is available 9am–8pm weekdays and 11am–4pm weekends for advice and support.