Honesty is the best approach when it comes to battling an addiction and seeking help. There is a saying in the addiction recovery community that says “You’re only as sick as your secrets” – which depends of course on the context and who has said it but when it comes to addiction honesty is the best policy.
Are you concerned about your own drinking habit or someone who is close to you? Have you lied about how much you drink or perhaps you have kept your drinking secret from those around you? Keep reading to find out more about secret drinking, how to recognise it and how to determine if you have a problem with alcohol.
What is secret drinking?
Secret drinking is common among those with an alcohol use disorder and have a high tolerance for alcohol. To get the desired effect from alcohol, high tolerance users have to drink more so it could mean that they secretly drink before an event – also known as pregaming.
Someone who drinks alone though is not classed as secretly drinking. The key difference here is that it is intended. A secret drinker is hiding their drinking as part of a ‘game plan’ so it appears they have had no more drink than anyone else.
How to recognise a hidden alcohol use disorder
There are a few ways to recognise the signs of a hidden alcohol use disorder.
Preference of alcohol
Those with an alcohol use disorder sometimes prefer to drink vodka as it’s clear, has no strong odour and looks like water. Just because someone prefers vodka doesn’t mean they have a drinking problem. However, if they are hiding their vodka, filling water bottles with vodka or appear to be pouring liquids into other non-alcoholic liquids, such as tea or soft drinks, then they may have a hidden problem.
Secret flasks
Another way to hide drinking is by using a secret flask, or vessels that are disguised as something else. This can include handbags, perfume, cans of pop and even electronic devices. This doesn’t mean to say that everyone with these have a drinking issue, but those who use them regularly may do.
Hiding empties
Drinking can also be hidden by hiding empties in the bottom of rubbish bins, in wardrobes, cabinets or under furniture. If you happen to find bottles tucked away in places like these this could be a sure sign that your loved one has a drinking problem.
Lying about your consumption alone does not suggest that someone has an alcohol use disorder. It is important to understand the common characteristics though and to consider other factors when you think you or someone you care about may have a drinking problem.
0 Comments