Local Rehab Explains Closet Alcoholism

Georgetown, DE - SUN Behavioral Health Delaware published a blog post that explained closet alcoholics and how they are different from high-functioning alcoholics. The term “alcoholics” is an outdated term that carries the weight of stigma. The more appropriate term is “a person with an alcohol use disorder.”

People who are closet alcoholics are people with an alcohol use disorder who hide their alcohol use. They may have a job and maintain their relationships, but their alcohol use has still impacted their lives enough that they feel the need to hide their alcohol consumption from those they love. They may also feel like they need others to believe their life is under control. It is also common for them to participate in binge drinking in secret. While someone who is high-functioning might also binge drink, people with closet alcohol use disorder will binge drink in secret.

“High-functioning alcoholics and closet alcoholics are similar in the fact they both remain as functioning as possible. They might both have jobs and stable relationships. The difference is that closet alcoholics will go to great lengths to hide their addiction. High-functioning alcoholics will discuss their alcohol use and even flaunt it at times. The people around them will often notice the high-functioning alcoholic signs. However, closet alcoholics are the opposite, and it’s rare that anyone will notice how much they’re drinking,” the blog post states.

Because people with a closet alcohol use disorder remain secretive about their alcohol consumption, they may not show as many of the typical alcohol use disorder signs. Instead, loved ones may find empty bottles purposely hidden to ensure nobody sees them. They may also be more likely to drink vodka as it can be challenging to detect and can easily hide in coffee or water bottles. A typical action they might use is brushing their teeth frequently or chewing gum so they can hide the scent of alcohol on their breath.

It is also possible that they will hide legal concerns like DUIs or leave early from work or family get-togethers so they can drink alone. As time goes on, they may show signs of alcohol withdrawal if they have been with alcohol for too long. Loved ones might begin to feel a sense of mistrust because of the secrecy. People with a closet alcohol use disorder may not be willing to accept help, and if their loved ones try to force them to seek treatment, they might withdraw. Instead, calmly discussing signs of an alcohol use disorder that are recognizable can lead them to be more willing to seek help.

“It is essential that while you want what is best for your loved one, you do not forget about yourself. It can be a demanding experience to be the person who is supporting a closet alcoholic. Finding someone that you can talk to or connect with can help. It is okay if you need to separate yourself from your loved one. There will be days when it will feel like too much for you to handle, and in those moments, remember to take a moment for yourself in whatever way works best for you,” the blog post continues.

SUN Behavioral Health Delaware solves unmet needs in their community. They can treat co-occurring disorders, which are disorders that exist simultaneously, such as alcohol use disorder and depression. They also offer 24/7 crisis care that allows people to be admitted for help before they can change their minds.

SUN Behavioral Health Delaware solves unmet needs. For more information, visit their website or call them at 302-604-5600.