People get very nervous around someone who has just recently decided to stop drinking. Remember the Seinfeld episode, where Elaine's boyfriend-- an "alcoholic-" accidentally picks up Jerry's non-virgin drink at a party, then proceeds to go on a week long bender? Elaine blames Jerry. . . . . .
Lot's of misconceptions out there. No harm in sidestepping them-- unless, of course, you're near a much lower bottom than you described, Marie. You're not in jail, you haven't had a DUI accident, people aren't doing interventions on you. Announcing you're an alcoholic may or may not help you right now; sounds like in your case it's not necessary to burden others with your problem.
You might need a little "vacation. . . . ?" but it could be at a "spa," no need to call it rehab. Good luck