Sex addiction is something most people don't think can happen to
them. As it develops they tell themselves there isn't a problem even
when the evidence stacks up that there is. Sex addiction can have
lasting consequences for both those it afflicts as well as their loved
ones. Fortunately there are methods of treatment but unfortunately none
are fast or easy and that's assuming an addict can overcome their fear
and shame to do something about it.
Sex addiction is similar in many ways to drug and alcohol addiction. At its most basic level there is little difference at all. The brain becomes dependent on chemicals it produces during sex, the only difference between sex addiction and others is the addictive substance comes from within, meaning a fix can be produced nearly anywhere at any time. This makes recovery more complicated as a sex addict tries to reintegrate their drug of choice back into their lives in a healthy way while a drug addict would abstain completely forever.
One of the most common ways addicts get treatment is through a 12-step program. These programs are almost identical to the ones used to treat drug and alcohol addictions. They help an addict live their day-to-day lives, monitoring their own behavior and taking control. These programs involve meeting with groups which offer a level of education and support one might not find in one-on-one therapy. There are even programs that target couples where addiction has come between them, helping the addict recover as well as helping the pair rebuild trust.
There are different varieties of 12-step programs as various larger groups sponsor them. They're free to join and they can be found online, through a doctor, therapists, or counseling service. Some meet online or over the phone if travel is an issue or some addicts just don't feel like they can meet in person with a group. The variety in groups means an addict should be able to find an appropriate one after some searching.
The 12-steps are not the only method, however. Counselors can be trained to deal with sex addiction, as are many priests of varying denominations. Professional therapists are highly effective as they can teach sex addicts coping techniques for their emotions and talk with them to understand the core of their problems. Therapists can also refer them to other specialties should they be needed and many run group therapy sessions.
It's important an addict seek treatment as soon as they can but sadly the taboos around sex can create a great deal of guilt and shame around the problem. Addicts can also fear their secret being discovered if they go for treatment. Unfortunately many only get treatment after such a disastrous event occurs such as their spouse finding out or they lose their job.
If you're a friend or family member of a sex addict keep in mind the factors working against them. Guilt and shame are normally emotional tools that keep us on the right track but like anything else when taken to a certain degree they can do more harm than good. Trying to use shame to urge an addict into treatment may only work to isolate them and drive them deeper into addiction.
Sex addiction is similar in many ways to drug and alcohol addiction. At its most basic level there is little difference at all. The brain becomes dependent on chemicals it produces during sex, the only difference between sex addiction and others is the addictive substance comes from within, meaning a fix can be produced nearly anywhere at any time. This makes recovery more complicated as a sex addict tries to reintegrate their drug of choice back into their lives in a healthy way while a drug addict would abstain completely forever.
One of the most common ways addicts get treatment is through a 12-step program. These programs are almost identical to the ones used to treat drug and alcohol addictions. They help an addict live their day-to-day lives, monitoring their own behavior and taking control. These programs involve meeting with groups which offer a level of education and support one might not find in one-on-one therapy. There are even programs that target couples where addiction has come between them, helping the addict recover as well as helping the pair rebuild trust.
There are different varieties of 12-step programs as various larger groups sponsor them. They're free to join and they can be found online, through a doctor, therapists, or counseling service. Some meet online or over the phone if travel is an issue or some addicts just don't feel like they can meet in person with a group. The variety in groups means an addict should be able to find an appropriate one after some searching.
The 12-steps are not the only method, however. Counselors can be trained to deal with sex addiction, as are many priests of varying denominations. Professional therapists are highly effective as they can teach sex addicts coping techniques for their emotions and talk with them to understand the core of their problems. Therapists can also refer them to other specialties should they be needed and many run group therapy sessions.
It's important an addict seek treatment as soon as they can but sadly the taboos around sex can create a great deal of guilt and shame around the problem. Addicts can also fear their secret being discovered if they go for treatment. Unfortunately many only get treatment after such a disastrous event occurs such as their spouse finding out or they lose their job.
If you're a friend or family member of a sex addict keep in mind the factors working against them. Guilt and shame are normally emotional tools that keep us on the right track but like anything else when taken to a certain degree they can do more harm than good. Trying to use shame to urge an addict into treatment may only work to isolate them and drive them deeper into addiction.
No comments:
Post a Comment