Addictions come in many forms. While drug and alcohol addiction are more recognized than some others, people can be addicted to anything that triggers the reward pathway in the brain. Whether it’s gambling, food, or sex, an unhealthy dependence can have devastating consequences. So, what is sex addiction, and how can it damage your life? Santè Center for Healing understands that addiction has many faces. Therefore, we offer a wide range of therapies and treatments to help individuals overcome their substance abuse or process addiction (i.e., sex or gambling) so they can regain control of their lives.
What Is Sex Addiction Like?
Having an addiction to sex involves an overwhelming preoccupation with it, resulting in compulsive thoughts and actions. Both men and women can suffer from sex addiction, which is characterized by an inability to control urges and behaviors. The types of behaviors differ. However, a common trait throughout out many sexual addictions is the inability to gain true pleasure from the act. Rather, individuals find themselves drawn to sexual acts as a means of coping with underlying issues or because of some compulsion. Thus, individuals struggling with sexual addiction rarely enjoy themselves. The addiction isn’t about pleasure, but alleviating some other mental or emotional pain or discomfort. When treating sex addiction at a mental health dual diagnosis treatment center, counselors and therapists get to the heart of an individual’s compulsion to help them heal and overcome it.
One person may watch endless hours of porn, while another may engage in multiple affairs, putting their spouse at risk. Other people with sexual addictions might seek out anonymous partners or take part in exhibitionism, which could lead to serious legal problems.
As with other addictions, sexual addiction comes with its own set of risks, such as:
- Increased chance of contracting sexually transmitted diseases
- Risk of unwanted pregnancy
- Damage to personal relationships
- Legal issues if engaging in illicit activity, i.e., sex solicitation
- Higher incidence of substance abuse to cope with shame or guilt
A person’s job performance may suffer, especially if they’re preoccupied with pursuing sexual activity instead of focusing on work. Also, seeking sex outside of a committed relationship can result in breakups and divorce.
Similarities to Drug and Alcohol Addiction
What is sex addiction, and how does it impact people’s lives? People addicted to sex often don’t feel as much pleasure during the act itself. However, they’re unable to control their behavior. They may want to stop seeking sex but simply can’t. It’s easy to see the connection between this type of addiction and a dependence on drugs and alcohol since they’re all characterized by an inability to curb destructive actions.
Like people who drink to excess, people with sexual addiction are trying to escape negative thoughts and feelings. Sexual fantasies consume much of their time; gradually, they lose interest in activities they used to enjoy and real, personal relationships. Impersonal sex, with no intimacy, increasingly takes over their lives.
So what is sex addiction treatment like? Santé Center for Healing can show you.
Healing Starts Here
If you or a loved one is struggling with any type of addiction, our medication-assisted detox program and recovery center provides a comprehensive treatment. Under our care, clients from Argyle, Texas, and around the country learn positive, productive ways to handle stress. With our guidance and support, you can overcome whatever addictions are currently controlling you and get a new lease on life.
The addiction treatment programs we offer include:
- Problematic sexual behavior treatment
- Individual therapy
- Psychotherapy
- Family therapy
- Trauma therapy treatment
Unhealthy attachments can lead to addiction. What is sex addiction treatment like at our facility? You can find out by calling us today at 866.238.3154. We’re ready to help you make lasting changes that lead to long-term recovery.
