I don't have any evidence one way or the other but the tale of the functioning alcohol addict is one that shows up frequently in popular culture: dramatic films

I don't have any evidence one way or the other but the tale of the functioning alcohol addict is one that shows up frequently in popular culture: dramatic films and novels. The narrative is only advanced by a conflict that results in some kind of climax resulting in redemption or doom. But in real life people probably just plod on.