Alcoholism
To quote Denzel, I am drunk right now. I’m sure there have been plenty of posts about this but I couldn’t find them. I drink 5-12 drinks every night for last 12 months as a banker at a good BB. Work is fine. Currently on track for a2a. Combination of depression my whole life (work, family, school, boarding HS etc) has led me here and I know people suffering the same thing. Common denominator seems to be prep/boarding school and ivy school and ofc finance. anyone as a high functioning addict that has never been intervened because I still work good work be able to do anything to break this cycle of alcoholism/work/depression? Really need help atp and this is where I am.
Breaking the cycle of alcoholism, work, and depression is challenging but absolutely possible. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are actionable steps to consider:
Acknowledge the Problem: You've already taken the first step by recognizing the issue and seeking help. This is critical for change.
Cut Back on Alcohol: While quitting cold turkey might be overwhelming, start by reducing your intake gradually. Some WSO users have shared that removing alcohol from their living space entirely helped them avoid temptation. If you feel withdrawal symptoms, consult a medical professional immediately.
Seek Professional Help: Therapy is a game-changer. If you can, find a therapist or psychiatrist who specializes in addiction and depression. If cost is a concern, look into in-network providers or reputable self-help resources.
Build a Support System: Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues you trust. Isolation worsens depression and addiction. Rebuilding your social network outside of work can provide emotional support and accountability.
Focus on Physical Health: Exercise, proper nutrition, and sleep are essential. Many WSO users have emphasized the importance of physical activity in improving mental health and breaking negative cycles.
Address Underlying Issues: Depression and past experiences (boarding school, family, etc.) may be fueling your addiction. Therapy can help you unpack and address these root causes.
Set Small, Achievable Goals: Start with manageable changes, like cutting back on drinks, exercising once a week, or scheduling a therapy session. Small wins build momentum.
Consider a Break from Work: If possible, take some time off to focus on recovery. Burnout and stress from banking can exacerbate addiction and depression.
Explore Alternative Coping Mechanisms: Replace drinking with healthier outlets like journaling, meditation, or hobbies. Some WSO users have found solace in activities like walking in nature or listening to music.
Join a Support Group: Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or other local addiction support groups can provide community and guidance from people who understand your struggles.
Remember, you're not alone in this. Many in high-stress finance roles have faced similar challenges and come out stronger. Take it one step at a time, and don't hesitate to seek help.
Sources: Feels like every facet of my life has fallen apart this year, unhappiness, Who is happy & satisfied with their current role?, Feel empty, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/depressed-pe-principal?customgpt=1
Go get help.
It works until it doesn't. My dad died in his early 60s as a result of years of businessman functional (and then not functional) alcoholism.
i'm not an expert. i haven't been quite in the same place, but have had adjacent struggles. the self recognition you just expressed is the hardest part. you've got that done, now just re-focus where you're seeking help. WSO has some really good people on here, but it won't be a substitute for professional help or a good group of people you trust.
good luck
Dude, stop drinking everyday. I’m old enough (early 40’s) to have seen it kill several people from my own generation. At 1 year into daily drinking I think you can stop cold turkey. If you can’t, then you need to enter AA or even treatment.
Take a physical toll out on yourself at the gym and not the bottle. Curb it off now. If need be get a counselor on this.
Anyone else drinking daily? Weed won’t impact as bad. Quitting isn’t as hard either. It’s not good to do it daily either, but I prefer it 10:1 compare to booze for taking the edge off.
Have struggled with addiction since teens (cocaine alcohol etc) while being high functioning in finance. Recently decided enough is enough and sought help. I'd start with a professional like a therapist who specializes in addiction. You don't have to continue like this.
No shame at all in getting professional help. Do your other analysts know? Only asking is they (or even just one trusted friend in your group) can help keep you accountable / walk you off the ledge of your next drink. Would consider confiding in them.
There’s nothing wrong with getting some help. Get help, for you, for your future family, for your future grandkids that you may never see if this continues, get help; there’s no shame in it :)
Addiction narrows our sources of enjoyment to one thing. Sobriety broadens our sources of enjoyment to many things, often which bring much more enjoyment than the substance we were addicted to could ever bring us
Honestly man, get help before it gets worse! I struggled with addiction too, I know how difficult it is to quit. I eventually reached out to Infinite Recovery for help. U don't have to hit rock bottom or let it affect your career before doing something about it. Being high-functioning doesn't mean u're okay.
The first part is recognition you have a problem. Drinking every day and not being able to limit yourself to 1-2 drinks is a good sign you need to do something different by getting help or trying to cut yourself off one day at a time. Normal functioning brains can stop themselves from having that next drink.
I started the journey almost 3 years ago and it is the best thing I could have done. Wake up every day with a clear head, I’m present for my family, and my entire health has positively turned around. I periodically have to remind myself, “Today is not the day that I will have a drink.”
Many people have the excuse to not start the sober journey because they think they need to drink for the job in social settings. There are more sober people in high finance, banking, PE, etc. than you could possibly imagine and they are doing exceedingly well without alcohol. No one else actually cares if you don’t drink at events or dinners.
Dude deadass ts not healthy gng
I also had a parent die from "functional" alcoholism. Long term health issues aside all it takes is one night to cross a line you wont come back from. Just because you can maintain your responsibilities doesnt lesson the severity of what your going through.
However as others have said the first step is recognizing you have a problem and resolving to fix it. For the sake of yourself and your loved ones I hope you find the strength to defeat this. Good luck and god bless.
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