Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope
For the countless individuals across the world who are dealing with a sexual addiction, the reality of the consequences they are facing as a result of their actions are devastating. There is often a misconception that a sexual addiction is not a “real addiction”.
However, similarly to an addiction to drugs or alcohol, people who struggle with a sexual addiction continue to persist in dangerous and harmful behaviors, in spite of the negative consequences that may be developing.
A person with hypersexuality or a sexual addiction can harm himself or herself and others in multiple ways through the course of their behaviors associated with this disorder, including physically, emotionally, psychologically, and more.
It is often those closest to the individual who suffer the most. Loved ones of those dealing with a sexual addiction may find themselves in a broken relationship as they attempt to understand and deal with the behaviors associated with sexual addiction.
Sex Addiction Behaviors
Often times, a person who has a sexual addiction may engage in behaviors that are disturbing or that betray the trust of family, friends and loved ones. This may include:
- Having affairs
- Utilizing prostitution
- Pornography
- Exploiting finances
- Other excessive sexual pursuits
Continual engagement in these types of behaviors can lead to a rapid decline in personal relationships and family engagement, ultimately destroying social circles and relationships.
Taking a step towards rebuilding relationships with loved ones begins with admitting your need for help and treatment. You cannot begin to find restoration and healing with the ones you love unless you first seek out appropriate help and care for the root of your problems.
Though treatment for sexual addiction can be a painful process, recovery can ultimately lead to healing that you desperately need, not only for yourself but also for those in your life who love and care for you. Your loved ones will also observe your seriousness about restoring relationships when you take a committed step towards treatment and getting the help you need.
Dealing with the consequences of a sexual addiction can be overwhelming; especially when these effects have negatively impacted loved ones. However, there is hope for healing that comes with sexual addiction recovery.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
What is the importance of sexual addiction treatment in restoring broken relationships?
Crystal Karges
Crystal is a Masters-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a specialty focus in eating disorders, maternal/child health and wellness, and intuitive eating. Combining clinical experience with a love of social media and writing, Crystal serves as the Special Projects Coordinator for Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope, where her passion to help others find recovery and healing is integrated into each part of her work.
As a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Crystal has dedicated her career to helping others establish a healthy relationship with food and body through her work with EDH/AH and nutrition private practice.
The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of addictions. These are not necessarily the views of Addiction Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.
We at Addiction Hope understand that addictions result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on November 19, 2015
Published on AddictionHope.com