Sexual addiction, or hypersexuality, is a complex disorder that results in many devastating consequences.
According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, nearly 12 million people suffer from sexual addiction in the United States alone, though these numbers are likely much higher [1].
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Shame & Guilt
Sexual addiction is often associated with much shame and guilt, and it can be difficult for a sufferer to come forward and discuss their struggle openly and honestly.
There is often significant stigma that comes with sexual addiction as well.
Many people can commonly understand this disorder as a lack of self control, but in reality, there are many factors that are influencing the types of behaviors that are characteristic of sexual addiction.
The reality is that individuals who are struggling with sexual addiction often suffer with life-changing consequences, such as broken relationships, physical complications, financial burdens, and even job/career loss.
Job Loss
Recovering from a job loss can be difficult and overwhelming, particularly in dealing with a gap or loss of income.
Whether a job loss was abrupt or given with notice, anyone who has experienced a job loss will likely experience a host of difficulties, including financial complications and the abrupt ending of health insurance.
If you have suffered a job loss due to a sexual addiction, you may consider making treatment for your addiction your top priority. Reach out to professionals who specialize in sexual addiction recovery to understand what your options are for treatment.
Even with the loss of health insurance, you will still have options in terms of treatment, and unless the sexual addiction is appropriately addressed, problems will be ongoing.
Your treatment and/or support team can also be helpful in connecting you to resources that can help you get back on your feet after a job loss, such as temporary work, resources for paying bills and making ends meet and more.
By taking action and address your sexual addiction, you are taking the first step towards recovering, not only from a job loss, but ultimately from an addiction that will continue to hurt you without intervention and treatment.
References:
[1]: American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, “Sexual Addiction”, http://www.aamft.org/iMIS15/AAMFT/Content/consumer_updates/sexual_addiction.aspx
About the Author: 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.
Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on January 25, 2016
Published on AddictionHope.com