Serenity Lane in Eugene, Oregon, has released a new blog post about alcohol psychosis, providing education on one of the more severe mental health symptoms of chronic alcohol use. The article explains what alcohol-induced psychosis is, why it occurs, and how it can be treated. With alcohol use disorder affecting 7.7% of Oregonians aged 12 and older, higher than the national average of 5.3%, raising awareness of this condition is critical for early intervention and long-term health.
Psychosis, sometimes called a “psychotic episode,” is defined as a disconnection from reality. The blog notes, “It doesn’t look the same from person to person, and it can be caused by a wide range of factors.” Primary symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, and confusion. Hallucinations may affect any of the five senses, while delusions involve strongly held beliefs that are not shared by others. Confusion can manifest as memory gaps, nonsensical speech, or rapidly jumping thoughts. Psychotic episodes may last minutes, hours, or even days. Causes range from untreated mental health disorders, trauma, stress, medications, brain injuries, to drug or alcohol misuse.
Alcohol’s effect on the brain is complex and far-reaching. “When present, it influences your brain’s natural functioning, leading to calmness and decreased alertness,” the blog states. Chronic or heavy alcohol use can impair the brain’s ability to process chemicals and vitamins, affecting memory, cognition, and motor skills. Underage drinking can have particularly lasting effects, but adults are also at risk of permanent impairment.
The blog introduces the concept of Alcohol-Related Brain Damage (ARBD), describing it as “the blanket effects of alcohol on the brain in the long term.” Symptoms can include persistent confusion, memory impairment, changes in thinking, and reduced motor skills. Individuals with ARBD are at higher risk of dementia and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, conditions that significantly impact daily life. Fortunately, ARBD can sometimes be treated or reversed with proper care and cessation of alcohol use. ARBD itself can increase the risk of alcohol-induced psychosis.
Determining whether psychosis is caused by alcohol requires context. The blog outlines several questions to consider: “How often do they drink? Has their free time been overtaken by alcohol use? Do you notice irritability and other physical side effects when they don’t drink? Have they mentioned needing to drink more to experience the same effects? Have they faced any financial or career-based repercussions due to their drinking?” These indicators can clarify the connection between alcohol use and psychotic episodes.
Withdrawal from alcohol can also contribute to psychosis. Symptoms may include agitation, tremors, hallucinations, and anxiety. Recognizing these warning signs early can prevent escalation into severe psychotic states. Intoxication may make psychosis-related symptoms worse, meaning timely intervention is crucial.
Serenity Lane emphasizes that professional treatment is essential for managing alcohol use disorder and psychosis. The blog highlights treatment options available in Oregon, including detox programs, inpatient care, and outpatient services. Licensed medical staff provide comprehensive care for both the physical and psychological aspects of recovery, aiming to reduce the risk of recurring psychotic episodes.
Through blogs like this one, Serenity Lane aims to educate the public about serious alcohol-related conditions and reduce the stigma surrounding alcohol use disorder. Providing this knowledge can empower communities to recognize symptoms early, seek appropriate treatment, and improve long-term health outcomes.
Serenity Lane 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 Eugene, 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.
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For more information about Serenity Lane Intensive Outpatient Services, Eugene, contact the company here:
Serenity Lane Intensive Outpatient Services, Eugene
Stephanie Edwards
541-485-1577
info@serenitylane.org
4211 West 11th Avenue
Eugene, OR 97402