Phone (800) 769-0342
Sexual Addictions
Sexual addictions—especially to Internet pornography—are becoming increasingly common. Instant access and clever pornographers make it easy to fall into the trap of using pornography for sexual gratification, rather than turning to a loving partner. Other types of sexual problems that interfere with normal sexual and emotional functioning include multiple affairs, anonymous sex, sex in questionably legal circumstances, exhibitionism, frotterism (sneaky touching), and so forth.
Sexual addictions can sometimes be destructive. For example, someone might have multiple sex partners and not take precautions against sexually transmitted diseases. They also put themselves at risk by having sex with someone unknown to them. Again, such behaviors may be destructive to the relationships that a person feels are most important.
- When do behaviors become a problem? When they . . .
- Interfere with or replace normal sexual relationships
- Take up a lot of time that could be spent with one’s partner or family
- Are used to self-medicate mood, stress, insomnia, and so forth
- Cost money that takes away from the family budget
- Upset one’s partner on emotional or moral grounds
- Cause deep shame or guilt
We do have the knowledge and training to help intervene with sexual addictions. This can be a difficult behavior to change, because sex is highly rewarding to the brain. However, strong motivation, a willingness to take responsibility for one's behavior, and ability to make use of the therapist's recommendations go a long way toward resolving this problem. Treatment includes:
- Acknowledgement of the extent of the problem in your life
- Understanding how you misuse sex and why
- Learning about the addiction cycle
- Identifying risk factors and triggers
- Overcoming bad feelings about yourself and sex in general
- Reclaiming a healthy sexual life with one’s partner
- Please call 800-769-0342 to schedule your first appointment.
