Sexual Issues

Sexual addictions are real, and impact not only the addicts but also their families and sometimes friends. Such addicts can put themselves in physical, emotional, and even legal risk—again, potentially affecting their families and loved ones. Whether specific behaviors can be considered sexual addictions may vary from person to person. A true addict would be unable to control certain sexual behaviors; the activities would be self-destructive; and such activities would interfere with the person's normal daily functions.

There is a tremendous range of sexual addictions that people experience and for which they seek treatment. In this age of instant gratification, addictions to internet pornography have become widespread and men and women can feed their addictions in the privacy of their own homes. Cybersex has become known as the “cocaine” of sex addiction because it progresses so fast for some people that it has characteristics similar to cocaine going directly into an individual’s brain. Cybersex is affordable, available and anonymous, all of which are traditional behavioral barriers, so the rapid progression to addiction is extremely high.

Sexual addiction may include pornography, internet sex, multiple affairs, exhibitionism, masturbation in public, uncontrolled sexual contact with strangers and other activities specifically designed to elicit sexual pleasure. In the hunt for sexual gratification, sexually transmitted diseases become a real and dangerous issue. Over time, what may have started as an obsession can become an addiction and all-consuming for the individual.

While Caron Texas does not primarily treat sex addiction, clinical staff is able to provide assessments, support through cross addiction groups, and an appropriate referral for this powerful addiction.