Sexual addiction is, in its simplest form, a normal sex drive that has become obsessive, to the point that behavior is out of control. Sexual addiction is referred to as a 'process' addiction, as opposed to a substance addiction like alcohol or drugs. In a process addiction, the euphoric feeling (or "high") comes from chemicals released into the brain, rather than from an external source. As the mind becomes accustomed to the release of these chemicals, it searches out for continued sources of that high. This could be from eating, the adrenaline rush of competition, putting yourself in dangerous situations, or from sexual stimuli. Sexual addiction can take on many forms, from the use of pornography and masturbation to repeated sexual affairs, patronizing prostitutes, and voyeurism. In extreme cases, sexual addiction can involve molestation, rape, and even murder. The many forms of sexual addiction have one thing in common, the behavior is done in secret, and the sex addict becomes skilled in hiding this secret life from those closest to him. Sexual addiction is rarely caused by only one factor, but is more likely a build up of conditions over time. In my own case, I was exposed to porn at a very young age, and often escaped into the fantasy world of pornography and masturbation, rather than risk rejection from real girls. Even after marriage I kept up my habits, which put a wedge in my marriage that I didn't understand, and led to divorce. Sexual addiction is something that was a part of my life for over 30 years without me realizing it. For other people, causes for sexual addiction can include traumatic experiences in their childhood such as physical and/or sexual abuse, abandonment, or emotional trauma. Whatever the causes the root is simple: it is sin. Until we learn how to overcome the addiction, we continue to fail.
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Sex Addicts Anonymous
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Counseling for sexual addiction
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The National Council on Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity
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Sexual Addiction
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Codependents of Sexual Addiction
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