Questions surface when attempting to define what is too much attention focused on sex and what is thought to be too little sex. Therefore, there aren’t strict guidelines that can be used across the board to categorize people who claim to have a sex addiction. However, it is safe to say that if your sexual activities are manifesting into problems in other areas of your life, there may be an addiction. Unhealthy sexual practices that involve risky sexual behavior, investing too much of your finances on things such as pornography, internet pornography, sex chats and professional sex workers can indicate that there is a problem. The best course of action is to seek out professional treatment and discuss your individual circumstances with a professional.
Sex addiction can be treated in ways that are similar to addictions such as drugs and alcohol. There are twelve step programs, rehab facilities and trained therapists that can offer a great deal of help and information to the addict. The underlying issues surrounding a sex addiction are similar to other addictions. Fear is often the deep-rooted problem that needs to be addressed. Past trauma and abuse are also often issues that need to be dealt with. The sensitivity of sex addiction needs to be considered.
Addictions come in many forms, and the bottom line is that an addict is an individual that suffers from a disease that does not instantly disappear. Programs of recovery can be designed for each addict that is willing and open to doing what is necessary to have a successful recovery. Although sex addiction is being debated by the APA (The American Psychiatric Association) in regards to if it fits the official definition of an official disorder, the fact remains that it is a problem and there are individuals who suffer from this affliction who are asking for help. They should have access to the help they need in order to have a better quality of life.
Sherry Gaba, LCSW, is a Licensed Psychotherapist on Celebrity Rehab and in private practice and author of “The Law of Sobriety: Attracting Positive Energy for a Powerful Recovery”. She can be reached at [email protected] to learn more about her teleseminars, workshops, speaking engagements, and coaching packages.
