Serenity Lane Shines Light on Closet Alcoholics

Serenity Lane in Portland, Oregon has released a blog post about closet alcoholics. This blog is designed to shed light on some of the signs of alcoholism so that people will be better equipped to spot it. With 7.7% of Oregonians aged 12+ reporting having an alcohol use disorder (AUD) within the past year, with the national average being 5.3%, knowing the signs can be life-saving. Why do people hide their alcoholism? What are the signs to look out for?

There’s much stigma surrounding the world of alcohol, with partying being normalized amongst youth. At the same time, long-term alcohol use is frowned upon. The younger someone is when they start drinking, the more likely they are to develop an AUD and drink for much longer in their lifetime. Additionally, drinking outside of partying can be considered shameful, too. This can lead to many people feeling the need to hide their alcohol use, which can be detrimental to their long-term health.

Serenity Lane wants to address these concerns and knows that offering educational blogs can be a huge step in lowering the drinking stigma and encouraging people to look to recovery. “Most people don’t want to have an alcohol use disorder,” the blog reassures. “Many times AUDs stem from loneliness, untreated mental illnesses, or outward stressors that they didn’t feel equipped to handle on their own.”

The blog also explains further the difference between a “closeted alcoholic” and a “high-functioning alcoholic.” “Both ‘closet alcoholics’ and ‘high-functioning alcoholics’ refer to the same thing – a person who might seem to be upholding their life well or not giving many stereotypical indicators that they are managing an alcohol use disorder.” The blog continues, expressing concerns over terms such as “high-functioning” and how they can be damaging.

“The term ‘high-functioning’ can be both misleading and dangerous. Not everyone manages AUDs the same, but that doesn’t suddenly negate the risks that can come from long-term and/or heavy alcohol consumption,” the article states. If an individual believes someone they love is managing an alcohol use disorder, Serenity Lane recommends seeking treatment.

Whether wanting to help a loved one or themselves, people can turn to Serenity Lane to find quality alcohol treatment in the Oregon area. Not only do they offer detox programs, but they also have inpatient and outpatient services. Their medical staff is trained and licensed to help people through all stages of recovery. They want to continue to provide educational information to all, regardless of where they live.

Serenity Lane Portland has been helping people overcome substance and alcohol use disorders since 1973. All of the programs they offer have been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). They have introduced many new programs in Oregon, such as residential step-down and outpatient programs that integrate residential and outpatient services. They have also been the provider of the only Addiction Counselor Training Program in Oregon. Some of their graduates are now offering their services through several treatment programs throughout the country.

People who would like to know more about the addiction treatment services available through Serenity Lane of Portland, Oregon can visit their website or contact them by telephone or email. Serenity Lane has live people ready to help place patients from 8:00 am - 7:30 pm Monday through Friday, and 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Saturday and Sunday.