Group Support For Sex Addiction Recovery Meets In Various Locations

By Nelda Powers


The individual with a sexual addiction is dependent on excessive intercourse just as the alcoholic is dependent on drinking. Alcoholics Anonymous is an organization that holds meetings to help alcoholics. There is similar group support for sex addiction in many locations. The sexual addict is not the same as the sexual deviant. That individual seeks practices that are abnormal. They are often against the law as well.

The addict should not be confused with the deviate. The sexual deviate is obsessed with abnormal practices that are usually against the law.

An addiction can be to internet porn as well as to in-person sexual encounters. It can be a daily or twice daily obsession, however, the actual sex acts fall within what is considered normal. It is only the frequency that is not. It is the inability to limit the frequency that is problematic.

The symptoms of an addiction include the need for ever increasing levels of intensity to achieve satisfaction, spending too much time having sex to the extent that it blocks other activity and feeling withdrawal symptoms if sexual gratification is not frequent enough. Prior to group therapy, a medical doctor should be seen to rule out any physical condition that may be causing the intense need for sex.

There may be overlapping symptoms such as depression and generalized anxiety disorder. These should be included in any care plan. The supportive gathering may be led by a professional, such as a psychologist or social worker.

The recovering sex addict will make an ideal leader due to the fact that he or she will have complete understanding of what the addict faces. Everyone in the group benefits when experiences are shared. Knowing that others have overcome the obsession is encouraging to everyone.

The meetings are structured to maintain anonymity among the participants. This is the same principle that Alcoholics Anonymous is founded on. They know each other by their first names and have no worries about being unfairly judged by others.

An important thing to remember is there are some situations that must be avoided. These are called triggers. They can be smells, sounds or sights that bring to mind the excessive need for sex. Each individual must learn to recognize what his or her triggers are to aid recovery.

A distribution of meeting places exist around the country ready to help the individual who is sexually obsessed. A psychiatrist may conduct the sessions as a part of therapy. A recovering addict may be in the leadership position due to his or her personal experience. Either style should endeavor to make everyone feel comfortable and relaxed enough to share their feelings and experiences.

There are all male meetings and all female meetings. Many are open to both genders. In addition, there are meetings for the spouses or partners of the afflicted person. When these family members get together they can discuss mutual problems in dealing with the addicted partner.

Internet porn is at the root of many cases of sexual fanaticism. Some couples watch it together. However, when one partner spends time looking at porn on the internet, it takes time and interest away from his or her partner. Group support for sex addiction provides the impetus to recovery. There is comfort in knowing that others have been through the same thing.




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