What is closet drinking? Many people struggling with alcohol addiction will go to great lengths to hide their addiction from friends, co-workers, and loved ones. They call themselves social or closet alcoholics and think they have everything under control, but that is just the illusion that addiction creates. For men and women who use alcohol to cope with stress, depression, or other causes of dysfunctional emotions or behaviors, alcohol addiction treatment is the solution that will lead to a healthy lifestyle.
At Northpoint Recovery, we help individuals with their continuing addiction recovery through our outpatient treatment center in Boise, Idaho. Our caring and compassionate team works together to create a tailored treatment plan based on each patient’s unique symptoms. We help patients understand how addiction has a physical effect on them and how it can lead to a worsening addiction and other mental health issues. Contact our team online today to learn how to spot the signs of a closet alcoholic and how we can help you begin your addiction recovery journey.
What Is Closet Drinking?
A closet drinker is someone who, by all outside appearances, leads a productive life. You may always see them with a drink but think nothing of it because they appear not to have a problem. Closet alcoholics will go to great lengths to hide their addiction, including lying about their use and concealing evidence of obsessive drinking.
Men and women can become closet drinkers for various reasons, including:
- Shame and embarrassment over their addiction
- To cope with known or unknown mental health disorders
- To resolve feelings from trauma
- To keep up with the stress of work, school, or family life
- Peer and social pressure
At Ashwood Recovery, we are well aware of the dangers of alcohol and how many people will hide their abuse. Our behavioral therapists will help dispel any myths about alcohol and help patients see how alcohol controls their lives.
What Are the Signs of Closet Drinking?
Closet drinking can lead men and women down a dangerous path. If you suspect a friend or loved one is a closet drinker, there are clear signs that you can look for to confirm your suspicions, such as finding an unusually high amount of empty bottles and cans in the trash.
Other signs of a closet alcoholic include:
- Finding stashes of alcohol in odd places, like bathrooms, garages, and outdoor storage
- They disappear for long periods at social events with no explanation
- Constantly chewing gum or using mouthwash
- Using water bottles, coffee cups, and other methods to hide alcohol
- They start drinking vodka as it has no odor and is colorless
- Having a high tolerance for alcohol
- Participating in binge drinking and other risky behaviors
- Becoming angry or confrontational when asked about their drinking
- Referring to themselves as social drinkers or are always saying they have things under control
Some people may go as far as to start smoking cigarettes to explain some of their behavior to hide their drinking.
How Do I Bring Up My Concerns with Someone Who Might Be a Closet Alcoholic?
Starting this conversation can feel uncomfortable, especially when the person seems high-functioning or insists they’re fine. But saying something—calmly and without judgment—can make a real difference. Instead of trying to label their behavior, focus on what you’ve seen and how it’s affecting you or your relationship. The goal isn’t to convince them they have a problem—it’s to open the door to change and show that you care.
Tips to Keep in Mind:
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Choose a quiet time when they’re sober and you won’t be interrupted.
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Keep your tone calm and caring, not accusatory or emotional.
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Use “I” statements, like “I’ve noticed you’ve been drinking more alone lately, and I’m worried.”
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Avoid labels like “alcoholic”—they can shut down the conversation fast.
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Listen more than you talk—let them share what they’re going through, even if they don’t admit to drinking.
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Offer support, not ultimatums—mention treatment options or say you’re willing to help them look into resources.
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Be prepared for denial—don’t let it discourage you. Sometimes it takes a few conversations for someone to be ready.
How Can Professional Addiction Treatment Help?
At Northpoint Recovery, we know all of the tricks that closet alcoholics use to hide their substance use disorder. We offer outpatient treatment programs to help them break their addiction and turn their lives around using various behavioral therapies and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Our outpatient treatment facility offers a full range of treatment programs, including:
- Drug and alcohol rehab
- Medical intervention
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Relapse prevention therapy
- Aftercare program
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, don’t wait until it’s too late. Learn more about the signs of a closet alcoholic and how we can help you begin your journey toward lasting recovery today.
FAQs About Closet Drinking
Can someone have a drinking problem even if they never get drunk in public?
Yes. Many closet alcoholics make a point of appearing in control around others, but they may drink heavily in private. Addiction isn’t about how you act socially—it’s about how often you drink, why you drink, and whether you can stop.
Why is hiding alcohol use a red flag?
Hiding alcohol usually means someone knows their drinking is a problem—or fears judgment if others knew the truth. That secrecy is often one of the earliest signs that alcohol is starting to take over their life.
Is it still addiction if the person functions well at work and home?
Yes. High-functioning alcoholics may still meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder. They might hold down a job or meet family responsibilities but still feel dependent on alcohol or drink to cope with emotional pain.
What’s the difference between a social drinker and a closet alcoholic?
A social drinker might enjoy a few drinks on occasion, usually in public settings. A closet alcoholic often drinks alone, hides how much they drink, or uses alcohol to manage stress, anxiety, or depression—even if they appear social at times.
Can closet drinking be part of a mental health issue?
Absolutely. Many people who drink secretly are also dealing with undiagnosed depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health conditions. That’s why dual diagnosis treatment is so important—it treats both the addiction and the underlying emotional struggles.
What if the person denies they have a problem?
That’s common—especially with closet drinking. Denial is part of addiction. Instead of pushing, share your concern and let them know help is available when they’re ready. Sometimes, planting the seed is the first step toward change.
Spot the Signs of an Alcoholic with Help from Northpoint Recovery
Contact Northpoint Recovery today to connect with our compassionate staff about enrolling in our alcohol rehab program. Don’t let shame or fear stop you from getting the help you need. We are here for you or your loved one.