What is Sex Addiction?
Sexual Addiction is defined as any sexually related, compulsive behavior which interferes with normal living and causes severe stress or damage on oneself and one's family, friends, loved ones, and one's work environment.
Nearly 12 million people suffer from sexual addiction in the US. Due to the accessibility of sexual material available on the Internet, cable TV and videos, these numbers are increasing. We are also seeing an increase in behaviors with today's youth, including "sexting" on cell phones. Despite common misunderstandings, this addiction is not simply about "too much sex" or an exaggerated problem created by therapists in order to define a high sex drive. Some might not think sex can be addictive because there are no chemicals involved. However, the body produces many hormones and neurotransmitters during sex that produce the same chemical "high" as drugs and alcohol. Sex addicts, like other addicts, often have a background of abuse (sexual, physical, emotional) and/or neglect, and family histories sprinkled with numerous addictions. (adapted from www.aamft.com website)
"Well then, what is normal sexuality...?"
Healthy sexuality involves a safe intimacy between two people that enhances the relationship, allowing for revelation of their true inner self without fear and judgment. Sex is not doing to someone, rather it is being fully present with someone and sharing your most vulnerable self. Sex is a choice, is mutual and intimate and honors yourself and your partner.
Nearly 12 million people suffer from sexual addiction in the US. Due to the accessibility of sexual material available on the Internet, cable TV and videos, these numbers are increasing. We are also seeing an increase in behaviors with today's youth, including "sexting" on cell phones. Despite common misunderstandings, this addiction is not simply about "too much sex" or an exaggerated problem created by therapists in order to define a high sex drive. Some might not think sex can be addictive because there are no chemicals involved. However, the body produces many hormones and neurotransmitters during sex that produce the same chemical "high" as drugs and alcohol. Sex addicts, like other addicts, often have a background of abuse (sexual, physical, emotional) and/or neglect, and family histories sprinkled with numerous addictions. (adapted from www.aamft.com website)
"Well then, what is normal sexuality...?"
Healthy sexuality involves a safe intimacy between two people that enhances the relationship, allowing for revelation of their true inner self without fear and judgment. Sex is not doing to someone, rather it is being fully present with someone and sharing your most vulnerable self. Sex is a choice, is mutual and intimate and honors yourself and your partner.
Maybe you’re wondering “Am I a sex addict? How do I know?”
When sex has become addictive, it is used to "numb-out", get a "high," or both. Have you crossed lines you never thought you would?
You could have a problem with sex addiction if you:
~have a pattern of out of control sexual behavior (compulsive masturbation, serial or multiple affairs, voyeurism, internet or other pornography use, prostitution or anonymous sex, regular visits to strip clubs, adult book stores, or massage parlors)
~are experiencing severe consequences due to sexual behavior and an inability to stop despite them (loss of partner, career damage, unwanted pregnancies and diseases, depression and suicidal thoughts, or legal consequences due to sexual behavior)
~have a persistent pursuit of self-destructive behavior
~have an ongoing desire or effort to limit or hide your sexual behavior, but nothing is working
~have sexual obsession and fantasy as your primary coping strategy
~regularly increase the amount of your sexual experience because the current level is not high enough
~have severe mood changes related to your sexual activity
~spend huge amounts of time obtaining sex, being sexual, or recovering from sexual experiences
~neglect important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of sexual behavior
You could have a problem with sex addiction if you:
~have a pattern of out of control sexual behavior (compulsive masturbation, serial or multiple affairs, voyeurism, internet or other pornography use, prostitution or anonymous sex, regular visits to strip clubs, adult book stores, or massage parlors)
~are experiencing severe consequences due to sexual behavior and an inability to stop despite them (loss of partner, career damage, unwanted pregnancies and diseases, depression and suicidal thoughts, or legal consequences due to sexual behavior)
~have a persistent pursuit of self-destructive behavior
~have an ongoing desire or effort to limit or hide your sexual behavior, but nothing is working
~have sexual obsession and fantasy as your primary coping strategy
~regularly increase the amount of your sexual experience because the current level is not high enough
~have severe mood changes related to your sexual activity
~spend huge amounts of time obtaining sex, being sexual, or recovering from sexual experiences
~neglect important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of sexual behavior
What help is available for sex addiction?
The first step in seeking help is to admit to the problem. Though marital, professional, and societal consequences may follow, admission of the problems must come, no matter the cost.
~Take the free Sexual Addiction Screening Test (SAST) at www.SexHelp.com
There is also an assessment for partners available.
~Contact a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) for help.
~Attend 12 step programs (such as ACA, SIA, SA, SAA, SLAA, or SCA). Go online to find local times.
~Visit www.GentlePath.com to browse the online catalog for books and tapes which will help you understand sexual addiction.
~Take the free Sexual Addiction Screening Test (SAST) at www.SexHelp.com
There is also an assessment for partners available.
~Contact a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) for help.
~Attend 12 step programs (such as ACA, SIA, SA, SAA, SLAA, or SCA). Go online to find local times.
~Visit www.GentlePath.com to browse the online catalog for books and tapes which will help you understand sexual addiction.
Sexual addiction is a complex addiction but there is hope!
As a trained Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), I have completed training developed by Dr. Patrick Carnes, which required attendance at multiple training modules and supervision with a CSAT Supervisor. It also requires ongoing education so that CSATs such as myself are experts in providing sexual addiction therapy. It is a rigorous process designed to help me best help you.
To learn more about treatment for sex addiction, please visit www.recoveryzone.com
As a trained Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), I have completed training developed by Dr. Patrick Carnes, which required attendance at multiple training modules and supervision with a CSAT Supervisor. It also requires ongoing education so that CSATs such as myself are experts in providing sexual addiction therapy. It is a rigorous process designed to help me best help you.
To learn more about treatment for sex addiction, please visit www.recoveryzone.com
"Much hope... exists for these addicts and their families. Sex addicts have shown an ability to transform a life of self-destruction into a life of self-care, a life in chaos and despair into one of confidence and peace." ~ Patrick J. Carnes, PhD, author of Out of the Shadows.