Is Sex & Love Addicts Anonymous right for you? Care options
Published:
Oct 9, 2024
,
08:12 p.m.
ET
You might be wondering if Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous could help you out. If that's the case, you might be struggling with a love or sex addiction. Both of these behavioral disorders involve an unhealthy urge or fixation on romantic partners or sexual partners.
Sex or love addiction can have negative outcomes on an individual's life and relationships. Unfortunately, it can be hard to get a diagnosis for either sex or love addiction. Neither disorder is recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders due to a lack of evidence. But it's possible to treat disorders with the help of support and treatment.
What is Sex & Love Addicts Anonymous?
Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous is a twelve-step program, similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. This fellowship is for anyone who suffers from an addiction to emotional dependence, love, or sex. The organizations offer established meetings throughout the United States and around the world. Members can attend meetings in person, by phone, or online. No money or other requirements are necessary other than a desire to quit sex addiction.
What other sex addiction treatment options are there?
Teletherapy
Sex addiction recovery is possible through teletherapy. Some treatment programs offer remote or online options, such as virtual therapy. This offers individuals accessibility and convenience, as it allows them to receive therapy from the comfort of their own homes.
They don't have to worry about driving across town to get professional help. It's also more affordably priced than traditional therapy. Licensed clinicians help individuals process their addictions, emotions, and triggers, especially if they stem from childhood trauma.
Birches Health offers comprehensive virtual treatment for sex addiction. Individuals will work alongside a licensed clinician who is experienced in treating sex addiction. To learn more about what types of therapy Birches Health offers, reach out today.
There are some different options to get started with Birches Health:
You can also speak to the team at 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to connect with Birches Health today.
Traditional Therapy
Traditional therapy options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. Each of these approaches helps individuals uncover their root causes and triggers. They can learn to identify their unhealthy behaviors and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Working with a licensed therapist can also help individuals explore any attachment issues, trauma, or other psychological factors.
Medication
There is no specific medication that treats sex addiction. However, medication might be prescribed to treat any co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, which can contribute to the addiction. Anti-anxiety drugs, antidepressants, or mood stabilizers can help treat compulsive behaviors and stabilize mood. A comprehensive treatment plan often includes medication and encourages individuals to engage effectively.
Self-Help Support Groups
Two of the most common support groups for sex addiction are Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) and Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA). Both of these options offer a sense of community and guidance. These groups also provide a safe place for individuals to share their stories and gain emotional support from like-minded peers.
Signs of potential Sex Addiction
A sex addiction occurs when an individual has an overriding urge or can't stop their sexual behavior. This can lead to negative outcomes in their life. Common signs of sex addiction include the following:
Strong sexual urges which make it hard to quit
Lack of satisfaction in intimacy or relationships
Overriding fantasies that are hard to control
Ignoring responsibilities for sexual activity
Legal problems or financial consequences
Engaging in sexual behavior in public places
Experiencing guilt or shame around sex
Sex addiction doesn't necessarily mean that you have a high sex drive or that you enjoy casual sex. Sexual desire is normal and healthy. It’s when that desire takes over your mind and life that it can turn into a serious problem.
How to choose which sex addiction treatment option is right for you
Choosing the right treatment option for sex addiction depends on the severity of the addiction and any co-occurring mental health problems. If you suffer from trauma or emotional distress, a licensed clinician who specializes in sex addiction can offer guidance. An intensive treatment program can help those who had no luck with other types of therapy.
You could also consider other forms of therapy or support. For instance, self-help support groups can offer accountability and community. Or, if you value privacy and flexibility, virtual therapy or traditional therapy could be better suited. Address your specific needs and goals with a professional to determine the best path for recovery.
