Chester recovery center warns of rise in “functional” alcoholism among working adults
CHESTER, N.J. (Morris County) — Alcohol use among working adults is on the rise across the United States — and New Jersey is no exception. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), nearly 17 million adults report drinking patterns consistent with alcohol use disorder, with many maintaining jobs and family responsibilities despite dependency.
Rolling Hills Recovery Center, a Chester-based addiction recovery program, warns that these so-called “functional” drinking patterns are among the most difficult to detect. The behaviors may appear harmless — such as after-work drinks or weekend socializing — but often mask deeper dependency and emotional distress.
A report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that high-income and professional groups experience some of the highest rates of binge drinking, a trend often reinforced by workplace culture and stress.
“Many individuals don’t recognize their drinking has crossed into dependence because it doesn’t disrupt their routines,” said Robert Marino, founder of Rolling Hills Recovery Center. “Awareness and education are key to preventing a quiet problem from turning into a crisis.”
Rolling Hills has made community education a cornerstone of its mission, encouraging families to watch for subtle signs of alcohol misuse such as fatigue, irritability, isolation, or reliance on alcohol to unwind.
In Morris County, where the center is based, health officials have reported growing concern over alcohol-related hospitalizations and mental health issues. The New Jersey Department of Human Services continues to note steady demand for outpatient treatment and recovery services statewide.
Modern treatment options now extend well beyond inpatient programs, emphasizing aftercare planning, counseling, and family involvement as essential elements of recovery. Rolling Hills Recovery Center provides a range of evidence-based treatment programs built around clinical collaboration and personalized support.
The center also offers online guidance to help individuals and families understand the difference between occasional drinking, dependence, and addiction. Visitors can access educational materials on identifying warning signs, exploring treatment options, and connecting with verified providers.
Learn more at rollinghillsrecoverycenter.com/what-is-functional-alcoholism.
