Why are people closet / secret smokers? My mother in her 60s has smoked for almost my whole life (im mid 30s) but will never admit it. Its so obvious to me but she will deny it whenever asked. I think she must be embarrassed or something but if that's the case why not admit it and get the correct help? Can someone please help me understand the thing about keeping it secret. Its really putting a strain on our relationship knowing she's lying to me. Her home clothes hair breathe all stink of smoke, not to mention the full ash trays hidden around her house