In my personal experience employers are very open and willing to help. Don't sell them short just because they are not alcoholics and don't "understand". Your not the first nor will you be the last they have seen. In my case telling my my boss was a relief. Not only do I not have to lie anymore but now I have people at work who care enough to ask how I'm doing and I can talk openly with them about it. For me honesty has turned out to be better then all my lies put together.....imagine that.
Plenty of advice here already about getting help. Good luck to you today.