Your partner drinks, but they’ve never drunk like this before, and certainly not alone either.
Naturally, you’re worried.
But, are there grounds to be concerned?
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Weve all heard that drinking alone can be a red flag foralcohol addiction.
But its not always that simple.
Addiction counselorMichael Villarreal,CADC, echoes this.
At a Glance
Drinking alone isnt a sure sign that your partner has an alcohol use disorder.
Is Drinking Alone Normal?
Think of it like thisdrinking solocanbe a symptom of a larger problem, but its not a guaranteed indicator.
Research backs this up.
Meanwhile, social drinkers might sip on a cocktail to celebrate or have a good time.
In many cultures, solo drinkinglike having wine with dinneris completely common and not necessarily unhealthy.
Healthy drinking alone typically involves moderation and enjoyment, says Kass.
Its usually about relaxation or fun, not distraction or emotional escape.
Are There Any Benefits to Drinking Alone?
Drinking alone isnt always a red flag!
There are many reasons why someone might prefer it.
Maybe your partner is a craft beer enthusiast, or they really appreciate a good cocktail.
Perhaps, they like drinking an occasional wine glass because it makes them feel better.
For some, drinking in social controls feels tiring or anxiety-inducing.
They might just not feel comfortable drinking in front of others, and thats okay!
Sometimes, its about personal preference.
Are they drinking to enjoy themselves, or are they trying to escape something?
Tip:That said, its not always easy to tellwhyyour partner drinks alone.
The key is approaching the conversation with empathy and curiosity rather than judgment.
No one wants to feel blamed or cornered.
Kass recommends starting the conversation with curiosity and empathy and asking about their drinking in a nonjudgmental way.
Remember, alcohol can sometimes act as a crutch, masking deeper challenges that need attention.
If youre feeling stuck, dont hesitate to reach out to a therapist or counselor.
And if your partner is open to it, professional help can be a game-changer.
Its totally okay to feel unsure or overwhelmed, but theres help out thereboth for you and your partner.
2008;28(18):4583-4591. doi:10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0086-08.2008
