Addiction comes in many forms it doesn’t always mean an individual is drinking or using drugs. Anything can become an addiction if it begins to affect your daily life negatively and despite the fact you know you should stop you can’t. (1) Characteristics of addiction are the inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one’s behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response. Sexual addiction is no different, The National Council on Sexual Addiction Compulsivity estimated that 6% – 8% of Americans are sex addicts, which is 18 million – 24 million people. Just like any other addiction treatment options need to be available for these individuals.
(2)Sexual addiction, also often referred to as hyper-sexuality, sexual dependency and compulsive sexual behavior disorder, is a condition that involves the sufferer becoming excessively preoccupied with thoughts or behaviors that give a desired sexual effect. Sex addicts suffer from a negative pattern of sexual behavior that leads to significant problems or distress.
Individuals with sexual addiction find it hard to resist or control the impulses to engage in sexual acts. If they do not seek treatment, just like all addictions there will eventually be a need to intensify the amount, or risk of behaviors to reach their desired outcome.
At Behavioral Crossroads, we have unique programs that specialize in sexual addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling and needs help,
please call: (609)645-2500 (Option 2)
www.beahvioralcrossroads.com/sah/
References:
