It’s not always obvious when someone has a drinking problem. There is a possibility that someone you love has a drinking problem. This can be true even if you believe you know everything about the person or they live a carefree and healthy lifestyle. Secret drinking is not uncommon and is related to misconceptions about people labeled as so-called functional alcoholics. No one abusing alcohol or other substances as a coping method is doing their best or living their best possible life. These folks have a problem and are, in many instances, in need of professional help.
The professionals at Red Oak Recovery® create treatment plans tailored to each client’s individual needs. If you believe someone you care about may have a secret drinking problem and needs an intervention, reach out to us today at 866.457.7590 to learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment program.
Signs Someone May Be a Secret Alcoholic
A person who has a secret drinking problem can surprise you. There’s an old saying that it’s always the person you least suspect. In reality, it’s often the person you suspect, but they are effective at hiding their personal problems from those they interact with during the day. Unfortunately, the charade can only go on for so long. A person with an addiction will most likely have issues with tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and increased mental health issues over time. As a result, their dark secret will eventually come to light. Keeping this in mind, you’re doing someone a favor by helping them get the help they need sooner rather than later. Early intervention truly is the best-case scenario.
Common signs of secret drinking may include:
- Showing up to an event after already having drinks
- Hiding the amount the person actually drinks
- Making false attempts to appear as if they are drinking the same amount as others
- Being dishonest about the amount the person drinks
- Carrying a water bottle or related item that actually contains alcohol
- Lack of interest in activities where alcohol consumption is not permitted or appropriate
- Making excuses about why they’re are intoxicated
Drinking and Mental Health
Individuals who have developed a drinking problem often struggle with issues that include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Low self-esteem
- Issues surrounding guilt, embarrassment, and shame
- Feelings of homelessness
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Suicidal ideation
Traumatic instances in the past may contribute to developing an alcohol use disorder (AUD). Having a family member who was an alcoholic is a common reason. Children often model behavior that they witness as a child. Children who grow up in a household affected by alcoholism may see violence or experience violent acts first-hand. They may also experience childhood sexual abuse (CSA) or other traumatic acts.
A trained mental health expert like those at Red Oak Recovery® can help clients address the core issues that have led them to develop a drinking problem.
Treating an Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
It’s essential to end the cycle of abuse as soon as possible. Your loved one may not have done something they deeply regret yet. However, that does not mean they cannot make regrettable life choices due to heavy drinking. Statistics reveal a correlation between alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and crime. Small mistakes can be a gateway to more serious behavioral issues. It’s important not to blame the victim, but it’s also important not to create more victims by failing to deal with your loved one’s personal problems.
Alcohol abuse, especially for men, is correlated with domestic violence. Intimate partner violence when alcohol plays a role can lead to more severe negative outcomes. Not all alcohol-related violence is physical, especially in domestic partnerships. Alcohol-fueled verbal abuse is prevalent.
Effective Coping Mechanisms Can Make a Massive Difference
High-quality treatment at a reputable alcohol treatment facility is a sensible approach for overcoming an alcohol use disorder (AUD). Quality recovery centers like Red Oak Recovery® can help your loved one stop drinking and address underlying conditions that are the root causes for turning to alcohol as a means of coping.
Developing positive and healthy coping mechanisms that people can apply to real-world situations is essential. It allows the individual to change problematic behaviors that have become normalized due to disordered drinking.
Contact Red Oak Recovery® to Begin Today
Red Oak Recovery® offers a team of expert clinicians who use the best available resources for alcohol addiction treatment. Effective treatment plans are a safe and effective way to battle alcohol addiction. At our men’s treatment center, we practice integrated wellness to treat the mind and the body for effective, lasting recovery. You can reach out to us 24/7 at 866.457.7590 to speak with a trained representative about our alcohol addiction treatment program.
