A high-functioning addict enjoying a hike like a normal person while on methamphetamine

Alexander here,

committed to the long road of recovery.

“The Functional Addict” is a deeply personal yet openly shared space where I document my journey of finding purpose and stability while recovering from addiction.

In my Blog, I share my experiences and recent research about addiction, particularly for those who identify as ‘functional addicts’—a niche I feel has little information available.

In my Memoir, I chronicle my journey as a successful TV and film editor in Sydney, having had the honor of contributing to monumental projects such as the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and editing live concerts for iconic artists like Coldplay, UB40, and Norah Jones. While recounting these achievements, I adopted the guise of a second persona, an alter ego that ventured into the underworld, seeking tranquility in methamphetamine—a substance that initially seemed to enhance concentration but ultimately dominated my existence, taking precedence over everything else.

My narrative oscillates between the peaks of my career, supported by a beautiful, intelligent, and loyal partner, and the contrasting depths of addiction. Sydney became a stage where I performed various roles—from a celebrated professional to a tormented soul struggling with substance abuse. This duality severed my connection with reality, straining my capacity to love and be loved, deeply hurting those I loved most.

The turning point in my story came when my mother arrived in Sydney unexpectedly, pulling me back from a destructive path and grounding me back to reality. After completing a four-month, full-time rehabilitation program in Australia, I returned to my parents’ home in Argentina, to continue treatment. It was here that I realized the real journey had only just begun.

Today, I find serenity in writing, a path to self-forgiveness, an opportunity to reflect on my past, and a means to gradually heal from moral injuries. By sharing my experiences, I intend to aid and encourage others facing similar struggles. particularly for those who identify as functional addicts.

With love,

Alexander.

From a celebrated, award-winning film editor to a rejected delivery guy. From my Darling Point home to sleeping on the pavement.

Transitioning from the Tokyo Olympic Games media center to the NSW Police detention center, my life spiralled from a loving relationship into a deceitful double existence, where dishonesty shattered my reality stripping me of everything I had and deeply hurting those I loved most.

Explore the depths of my fall and the arduous journey to rise again. Dive into “The Functional Addict” as I attempt to rebuild my life from the ashes, after believing I could juggle addiction in an already perfect life.

If you are unable to share your hidden struggles due to a need for secrecy or the inability to find like-minded individuals who use drugs as you do, please reach out here.