Yes, it does totally suck to tell people. It's partially the embarassment...and partially finally admitting it "formally" to yourself! And then those people will start holding you acountable for your words too. They will know when you fall off the wagon, and know when you are maintaining your sobriety. It's a LOT easier to stay a drunk when it's your own secret, right? Yeah, I know.... Look how long I've been using PsychCentral, and I JUST started posting about this problem! So, I DO understand wanting to keep it a secret.

My friends IRL know, and with their help, I had 7 years sober. Then...oopsie...for about 2 years I've gone back and forth. Mostly sober...but there have been TOO many slips. I live alone, so it's pretty easy to hide it .... for a while. But eventually, they figure it out. So, I give. I'm sick to death of it. And I refuse to lie to my friends.

Anyhow, if you decide to tell, if really does help you stay sober. And if you decide not to, I do understand that too. Either way, take care. And stay sober today, K?

Hugs, emmy