Drinking in secret can be a red flag that might signal a much bigger problem with alcohol abuse. The urge to hide this type of behavior is often an indicator that the person doing it knows it’s problematic. Additionally, it can also be incredibly dangerous. If you drink in secret, there isn’t anybody there who can monitor you or help if things get out of hand. If you suspect that a friend or family member is secretively drinking, there are some signs and symptoms to watch out for. And there are ways to support them and help them confront the issue. If you are struggling with alcohol abuse, there are resources available that can help you get on the path to sobriety.
Drinking in Secret: Why It’s a Problem and How to Stop
Feeling the Urge to Hide
One of the main reasons why drinking in secret is so problematic is because it comes from a place of shame. If there was no problem with addiction, the person wouldn’t feel the need to hide their behavior. This shame and guilt can spiral and become even more stressful, which in turn, can lead to even more substance abuse. If you often feel the need to hide your drinking, downplay it, or hide bottles away, it might be a signal that things are beginning to get serious.
Dangerous
Drinking in secret can also be incredibly dangerous. When we drink with friends or in a public place, there is usually somebody there to monitor us. Additionally, there is social pressure to maintain some level of control. However, drinking alone doesn’t provide that same security. Not only is there nobody to keep tabs on things but there’s also nobody there to help if you have an emergency. Alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening, so drinking alone can be risky.
Signs to Look For
If you suspect that somebody you care about is drinking in secret, there are some signs to watch out for. You might notice the same typical behavior changes that you could see with any sort of substance abuse. For example, changes in mood, changes in sleep patterns, unusual behavior, secretive behavior, and lies. You might also notice an odor of alcohol on their breath, or find bottles hidden away.
Getting Help
If you suspect that a friend or family member is drinking in secret and needs help, you can try talking with them and coming from a place of concern. They might get defensive. If so, drop the subject but let them know that you are there as a support person when they feel comfortable talking to you. If you are struggling with addiction yourself, there are resources available. Investigate local rehabilitation centers, or speak with your doctor about in-patient and out-patient treatment. You might also look for support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous.
Drinking in secret might indicate a much more serious problem with alcohol addiction. The need to hide behavior shows that a person realizes that things are getting out of their control. Additionally, drinking alone can also be dangerous from a practical standpoint. Not to mention the long-term negative effects that alcohol can have on the body. If you suspect that a friend or family member is drinking in secret, there are some signs to watch out for. It’s worth having a conversation to voice those concerns and offer your support. If you or somebody you know are struggling with addiction, there are resources there to help you. Hopefully, you can get the support you need to get on the path to recovery.
