When you deal with something tough, like sex addiction, you may want to be your own healer. Out of shame or concern for your family, you may not want to risk any judgment or criticism by sharing your struggles. While that's totally understandable, it is important to remember that isolating and hiding your addiction will only entrench it further. Being addicted to sex is the same as any other addiction in that you are only harmed by the secrecy. Hiding and delaying help will only keep you stuck.
One of the best treatment methods for healing from sex addiction is safe, ongoing support. Undoubtedly, it can be a scary thing to begin. However, take the first step and reach out. Be intentional and consider these reasons why recovery is not a solo venture:
How Others Can Help You Heal from Sex Addiction
They Provide Valuable Information
If you do not reach out for support for sex addiction, you can miss out on valuable resources that can help you on your journey to recovery. When you speak to your therapist about your struggles, you will likely be guided to and through stages of awareness and acceptance that make lasting recovery possible. Going to therapy can also help you learn about coping techniques for when you experience a craving.
You may also learn about a support group in your area from your therapist. Reaching out to others can help you draw on useful resources in your most trying times.
They Can Offer a Reliable, Helping Hand
Without intentionally seeking support, there would likely be no one around to help you when you most need it. You may not have an available supporter to encourage you to go to therapy or support group meetings. A kind, non-judgmental friend or a relative can keep you motivated or give you a ride when you need them.
They Help Reverse the Slide Toward Total Detachment
Sex addiction ultimately leads to realtionships that are completely distorted and severed. Your job, finances, and self-esteem may be damaged as well. Without outside help, your life can be reduced to dysfunctional attempts at intimacy through sex.
Nurturing authentic connections with others is vital. To combat despair and self-loathing, a relationship with a therapist and support group can help restore the connections you long for.
Their Emotional Support is Crucial for Lasting Recovery
No one ever wins a war alone. It takes a team of people to win a battle. You can find emotional support by talking to trusted friends, family, as well as your therapist. Let them know when your sex addiction started, how it makes you feel, and what you would like from the other person. Having nonjudgmental people you relate to is often a great comfort and a means of accountability.
Support groups are another great way to tell your story. In meetings like Sex Addicts Anonymous, you can be surrounded by people facing similar or the same obstacles. By listening to people share their stories, you will feel less alone and ashamed. You will be more apt to see the progress that is possible and even offer your own story as encouragement. Also, after you listen to others' stories, you can use what you have learned about their recovery to succeed on your own.
While the road to recovery may not be an easy one, you will get through it with the help of people who understand your journey and support your commitment to change.
Are you interested in learning more about how to reach out to others for a successful recovery? If so, please read more about sex addiction treatment and contact us for a free consultation.
