Despite the negative consequences of excessive drinking or alcohol abuse, many people struggle to recognise and address their addiction. One of the common issues associated with alcohol addiction is denial, or in other words – trying to hide our drinking. From our loved ones, from our employers, colleagues, classmates… From ourselves. This article will explore why your attempts to hide drinking fail and why you need professional help.
A Fight against Denial
- “I’m not drunk; I only had a few glasses to clear my head off this frustrating life.”
- “I was at the bar but didn’t drink any alcohol. I was catching up with old friends.”
- “Yeah, you have a point; I like what you say, so I wouldn’t drink again. This is my last drink.”
- “I may drink occasionally, but I’m not an alcoholic like my uncle. And I don’t spend all my money on alcohol like Kelvin.”
- “I know I had more than I should have, but at least I didn’t drive home drunk like some people. And I’m proud to say I’ve been sober for a month now.”
Do any of these scenarios sound like you or someone you know? Owning up to drinking alcohol isn’t an easy job. It takes lots of courage and determination. Alcoholism, also alcohol addiction, is a chronic disease characterised by your inability to control how much alcohol you consume. And it’s a serious problem affecting millions of people worldwide. You aren’t alone.
Being in denial about your drinking reaches its peak when you think these quotes somehow hide your condition. This thin, see-through, frayed veil won’t be able to hide your breath, the redness in your face, the stuttering and, for those who have reached this stage of alcoholism, the many stashes of alcohol around the house.
The Importance of Recognising Alcohol Addiction
Many people find that there is nothing wrong with drinking alcohol, such as beer and wine, in moderation. But recognising and acknowledging that you are somehow dependent on alcohol is one crucial step for getting the help you need to overcome the disease.
Unfortunately, most people struggling with addiction cannot admit they have a problem, which can lead to disastrous consequences. Recognising your problem is crucial because it can help you find solutions quicker. And here is what alcohol abuse can lead to if you don’t stop hiding your drinking problem behind a fragile glass sheet:
Why Do You Even Try to Hide It?
Hiding drinking is a common behaviour among people struggling with alcohol addiction. But are you addicted if you try to hide yours? Not necessarily, but fear of repercussions indicates that you acknowledge that some people consider your drinking a problem.
Common Attempts to Hide Drinking
Some of the most common attempts to hide drinking include:
Symptoms of Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol consumption can cause many physical and behavioural symptoms that are often easy to spot. Regardless of how good an actor we consider ourselves to be. Some of the most common and obvious symptoms of alcohol consumption include:
Getting Help for Alcohol Abuse
Contact UsWhy Your Attempts to Hide Your Drinking Fail
Hiding drinking is never a long-term solution to alcohol abuse. Because of the above, and more, it’s always better to be honest with yourself and your loved ones about your drinking. However, if you still wonder how your loved ones always know you have been sipping, here are some longer-term tell-tale signs of alcohol use:
Getting Help for Alcohol Abuse
The Providence team is ready to listen to you and help you find a suitable treatment. We agree that not every alcohol abuser is alcohol dependent. However, if it obstructs your routines and turns you into the unfaithful one in your relationship, we can help you.
The first step in seeking help for alcohol dependence is acknowledging that there is a problem. This can be difficult, as denial is common, but it is essential to recognise the extent of the problem.
Sharing the problem with a trusted friend or some family members can be a helpful second step in seeking help for alcohol addiction. They can provide emotional support, encouragement, and practical assistance in finding professional help.
We can provide expert advice and guidance on overcoming alcohol-related problems, including mental health conditions such as anxiety or panic attacks triggered by alcohol intake or the social consequences of hiding your drinking. Providence Projects offers a range of evidence-based treatments and support services to help you overcome addiction and rebuild your life.
At our alcohol rehab centre, we provide structured treatment and support. Our tailored treatment programme will help you overcome the underlying causes for your drinking, as well as find better coping mechanisms for them.