News Anchor is a Closet Alcoholic

Mark Suppelsa, WGN Channel 9’s evening news anchor, is going to an alcohol addiction treatment program for his alcohol abuse. Suppelsa reports that he has been using alcohol in the evening after his wife and kids went to bed. He has been able to manage as a functioning alcoholic thus far and now has decided that it is time for him to get treatment. It is unknown what may have led to this decision, however it is courageous of him to announce that he struggles with alcohol and will be going for addiction treatment. Like many alcoholics, Suppelsa was still functioning: Working full time, providing for his family, and keeping up appearances. The inner turmoil of an alcoholic is unknown to the outside world and the presentation of functioning fools everyone, at least for a period of time. The pain and desire to escape is so overwhelming that drinking alone sounds appealing to get some sort of relief at the end of the day. Suppelsa learned that drinking for relief rather than addressing underlying issues was not the answer. It is extremely commendatory that Suppelsa has decided to enter alcohol rehab. Not all alcoholics have to hit a low bottom in order to look to do something different. Alcoholism, like drug addiction, is a lonely disease and eventually you will lose everything. Addiction treatment is encouraged and the sooner the better. Learning to manage uncomfortable feelings without the use of drugs and alcohol is essential for staying sober.