Female Porn Addiction: Women Struggle, Too

Pornography has become ubiquitous in our society over the past several years. In many ways, the internet and internet-based mobile devices have caused its rise. Consequently, porn’s increasing prevalence has led to the growing problem of porn addiction. And while men are most frequently associated with porn addiction, female porn addiction is very much a real thing, too. If you’re a woman addicted to porn, we’re here to let you know that you’re not alone—and that there is real hope for healing. 

Do Women Get Addicted to Porn?

That may be a question you’re asking yourself. It’s mostly something only men deal with right? After all, when it comes to the subject of porn and women, it’s the sexualization of women that’s usually discussed. Though that’s an important conversation to continue having, the reality of female porn addiction isn’t getting the attention it deserves. 

Women are in fact watching porn, too. Just take a look at these statistics:

• Based on 2019 Google Analytics data, users of the most popular internet porn site in the world are actually 32% female, shares PsychologyToday.com. 
• A 2018 study by The Journal of Sex Research estimates that over 60% of women watch pornography. 
• A 2021 nationally representative survey of US teens by the Journal of Health Communication concluded that 57% of 14 to 18-year-old females have viewed pornography. 

 

Just because you watch porn doesn’t mean you’ll get addicted to it. However, porn consumption over time can lead to addiction. A 2019 nationally representative US survey by the Journal of Behavioral Addictions found that 3% of women in the US self-reported an addiction to pornography. In other words, female porn addiction can certainly happen. And as porn’s prevalence grows, it will likely continue to get worse statistically. 

Female Porn Addiction: A Different Experience

If you’re a female addicted to porn, your struggle is probably different than a male dealing with porn addiction. For starters, women’s motivations may lead them to seek out porn in other ways than men. Some women may prefer romantic stories, visual erotica, or more emotionally-related pornographic content. They may be struggling with their own relationship issues and are using porn as an outlet or a form of escapism. Some women will actually watch porn with their partner in hopes of enhancing their sex lives. Others start watching it out of curiosity to learn more about sex and sex techniques. Whatever their initial motivations, eventually what can turn into an innocent habit can lead to a real porn addiction.

The Challenges and Stigmas Women Face

Women addicted to porn have to navigate many societal stigmas, double standards, and assumptions that may make their recovery journey more challenging at times. In many ways, society thinks it’s acceptable for men to have sexual desires. Yet it doesn’t always feel the same about women. Another common assumption is that women in general aren’t as visually stimulated as men, which simply isn’t true. Many people also think the idea of a female addicted to porn is simply unheard of in our culture. 

Because of these stigmas, it’s often easier for women who are addicted to porn to struggle in secret. They likely can experience more guilt and shame associated with their porn addiction than men, driving them into social isolation. And women often lack the support and resources needed to address female porn addiction in a healthy way, making recovery more challenging. According to the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, women who view pornography are also more prone to:

• Having a negative body image
• Feeling pressure to perform pornographic acts
• Accepting rape myths
• Experiencing sexual assault and domestic violence
• Experiencing increased marital rape

Porn Addiction is a Gender-Neutral Reality

Though men and women may experience porn addiction in different ways, what porn does to your brain behind the scenes is very much gender-neutral. Its effects on your mental health are just the same. When you consume porn, your brain releases the pleasure chemical dopamine, which signals to you that the activity is rewarding. This means you want to seek it out again in the future. As a feel-good experience, watching porn can also become a way to self-medicate over and over again for negative feelings and circumstances, stress, or past trauma.

However, the more you watch porn, the less euphoria you get compared to when you first started. This is because your brain eventually develops a tolerance to this dopamine release, so you need to watch even more porn more often to achieve the same feel-good experience. Over time, this can lead to your brain developing a chemical dependency on porn’s dopamine release, leading to a total porn addiction.

Porn addiction is a form of hypersexual disorder, which means it is compulsive sexual behavior. Whether you’re a man or a woman addicted to porn, your need for porn is so great that you’ve become emotionally dependent on it. Your porn addiction can get in the way of your work, personal life, and relationships—eventually leading to painful consequences. You may want to stop watching porn, but you simply can’t on your own. 

Are You a Female Addicted to Porn? We Can Help

Female porn addiction, like male porn addiction, is a very real and serious struggle. But it’s a struggle you don’t have to navigate alone as a woman addicted to porn. With the right professional help, you can actually overcome your addiction and break free from its shame and secrecy. 

At Integrative Life Center in Nashville, TN, we provide comprehensive intimacy disorder treatment for women struggling with porn addiction, sex addiction, fear of intimacy, and more. Our CSAT therapist team includes women who understand what you’re going through—and are ready to support your recovery journey alongside you. If you’re ready to reclaim hope and your life, contact us now. 

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Trauma-Based Motivational Interviewing: Techniques and Strategies for Therapists

Trauma-based motivational interviewing (TMI) is an adaptation of traditional motivational interviewing that specifically addresses the unique needs of individuals who have experienced trauma. By integrating trauma informed care with motivational interviewing, TMI offers a strong tool for therapists. At ILC in Nashville, TN, our team understands how trauma affects behavior. We offer practical tips for therapists on using TMI techniques in their work. Our focus is on creating a healing environment that supports recovery.

Understanding Trauma-Based Motivational Interviewing

Trauma-based motivational interviewing recognizes that trauma significantly affects an individual’s behavior, motivation, and ability to engage in treatment. This method uses the ideas of motivational interviewing. It is designed to meet the needs of people who have faced trauma. It emphasizes creating a safe, respectful, and accepting therapeutic environment. This way, clinicians can leverage the strengths of motivational interviewing and align them with a trauma informed lens. 

This helps make sure that all interactions support healing and recovery. TMI is an important method for therapists who work with trauma survivors.

Key Techniques of Trauma-Based Motivational Interviewing

1. Establishing Safety:
   • Creating a safe space is fundamental in TMI. Therapists need to make sure that the therapy setting feels safe and private. This is very important for clients who have experienced trauma.
   • Clear communication about the therapy process and consistent routines help establish a secure environment. Respecting boundaries is also key to building a foundation of trust.
2. Building Trust and Rapport:
   • Developing trust is essential for effective TMI. Therapists focus on building a strong therapeutic alliance through empathy, active listening, and non-judgmental responses.
   • Techniques like reflective listening and affirmations help show the client’s value. They also validate their experiences. This builds deeper trust and encourages openness and honesty in therapy.
3. Exploring Ambivalence:
   • Ambivalence about change is common among trauma survivors. This is often due to fear of the unknown or adverse childhood experiences where change led to negative outcomes.
   • Therapists use motivational interviewing to help clients express their feelings about change. They also explore the pros and cons in a supportive setting. This enhances motivation for recovery by making the process more relevant to the client’s personal goals and values.
4. Empowering the Client:
   • Empowerment is critical in TMI, especially for individuals whose trauma involved feelings of powerlessness or loss of control.
   • Setting goals, solving problems, and developing coping strategies help clients feel more in control of their lives and choices. This helps clients feel more capable and confident in their ability to effect change.
5. Integrating Trauma-Specific Strategies:
   • Knowledge about the effects of emotional abuse and other trauma experiences is integrated into the therapeutic approach. Therapists are adept at recognizing symptoms and triggers and tailor their approach to address these specific issues.
   • We approach trauma processing cautiously, with a constant awareness of the client’s readiness and pace, to avoid re-traumatization while promoting healing.

Enhancing TMI with Advanced Techniques and Continuous Learning

• Advanced Techniques: To improve TMI, therapists can use advanced methods like imagery and body-focused exercises. These techniques help clients connect with their physical sensations and emotions, providing deeper insights into their trauma responses and coping mechanisms.
• Incorporating Imagery and Visualization: These techniques help clients visualize scenarios in which they cope successfully with stressors or recall safe, calming places when discussing traumatic memories. This method can strengthen the client’s ability to manage distressing emotions and improve their emotional regulation skills.
• Body-Focused Exercises: Techniques like progressive muscle relaxation and mindful breathing can help clients become more attuned to their physical sensations, often providing insights into their emotional states. These practices can also reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression that frequently accompany trauma, making them particularly useful in sessions focused on trauma recovery.
• Continuous Learning: The field of trauma treatment is ever-evolving, with new insights and techniques continually emerging. Therapists committed to TMI should engage in ongoing education and training to stay updated with the latest research and therapeutic approaches. This commitment improves their skills and makes sure they give the best and most current care to their clients.

Opportunities for Growth and Improvement at ILC

Trauma-based motivational interviewing is an invaluable approach for therapists aiming to support clients with a holistic approach. Therapists can help clients heal. They do this by using caring and client-focused methods. These methods include motivational interviewing. Therapists also have a strong understanding of trauma. This approach empowers clients to seek meaningful recovery.

Therapists and recovery centers in Nashville can improve their practice with trauma-based motivational interviewing. Many resources and training options are available. By adopting these approaches, therapists can significantly impact their clients’ recovery journeys, leading to more successful outcomes.

For training opportunities or more information on implementing trauma-based motivational interviewing, contact Integrative Life Center at (615) 891-2226. Our experts are here to help therapists improve their skills in trauma-informed therapy. This support can change therapy practices and client results.

 

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Why Language Matters: Choosing the Right Words in Addiction Recovery

Sometimes, seeing the world through the eyes of a child can be jarring–it can shed a sudden, harsh light on adults’ long-held assumptions. Many parents or caregivers can relate to the experience of driving children down a busy city street and hearing one of them ask why there was a man standing next to the road holding a sign asking for help. Without thinking, many of us might quickly reply, “Well honey, he’s probably just an addict.”

That small, off-hand phrase painfully illustrates so much that is wrong with the way many of us speak–and think–about people suffering from substance use disorder (SUD). It is easy to dismiss someone when we see them only in light of their addiction and not as the suffering human being they are. It is vitally important that we as a community learn all we can about preferred language within addiction recovery so that we can help and support those who need it, instead of stigmatizing and shaming them.

What Is Stigmatizing Language?

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, to stigmatize someone is to discriminate against them by associating them with a broad, often loosely- or poorly-defined group of people. One of the main ways we can stigmatize others is through the language we use. For example, we might refer to someone with alcohol use disorder as a “drunk” or “alcoholic,” identifying them chiefly by their struggle rather than their personhood. We might dismiss someone with substance use disorder as a “junkie.” This kind of language can have many negative effects on those suffering from substance use disorders of many kinds:

• It can make them less likely to seek treatment
• It can cause others to feel fear or pity towards the person with SUD
• It can feed into a self-destructive cycle of shame and substance use in the person with SUD

This kind of language ignores or minimizes the sufferer’s personhood, forgetting the fact that often people with SUD are in need of healing childhood trauma or may be subject to compulsive behaviors that compound their struggles with substance use. Put simply, they were children once, and whether or not they experienced trauma (though, sadly, it is often the case) they are someone’s child and deserve dignity and respect no matter their current circumstances.

What Is Preferred Language Within Addiction Recovery?

By using preferred language within addiction recovery, we can help those we love–and encourage any member of our broader community–to feel supported on their journey to recovery rather than stigmatized and shamed.

According to people with experience working in addiction recovery, a good way to start is by focusing on people-first language. This means starting with a sufferer’s personhood rather than their disorder. Here are some examples:

• Instead of “alcoholic,” try “person with alcohol use disorder”
• Instead of “addict” or “junkie,” try “person with substance use disorder”
• Instead of “former addict” or “reformed addict,” try “person in long-term recovery” or “person who formerly used drugs”
• Instead of “addicted to X,” try “has X use disorder”
• Instead of “drug offender,” try “person arrested for drug violation”

Another key to using preferred language within addiction recovery is to avoid stigmatizing terms for different aspects of SUD and addiction behavior. Here are some examples:

• Instead of “failing a drug test,” try “testing positive on a drug screen”
• Instead of “drug habit,” try “substance use disorder”
• Instead of “drug abuse,” try “substance use disorder” or “substance misuse” (for prescription drugs)
• Instead of “clean,” try “in recovery” or “abstinent from drugs”
• Instead of “drug of choice,” try “use of X substance”
• Instead of “dirty,” try “testing positive for substance use”
• Instead of “relapse prevention,” try “recovery management”

More than just an arbitrary code, using this preferred language within addiction recovery can actually help people suffering from SUD on their road to recovery.

Finding Hope in Addiction Recovery in Nashville, TN 

If you or someone you love is suffering from substance use disorder, whether it be alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs, there is hope. At Integrative Life Center, a holistic alcohol rehab center in Nashville, TN, we tailor our programs to meet the specific needs of our clients, whether that be talk therapy, group sessions, equine therapy, or yoga. Our evidence-based addiction treatment takes the whole person into consideration, from the program options offered to the language we use. We specialize in trauma-informed care, taking our clients’ pasts seriously as we work to help them build better futures for themselves. Reach out today to begin a journey to recovery that will last.

The post Why Language Matters: Choosing the Right Words in Addiction Recovery appeared first on Integrative Life Center.

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What are the Different Types of Trauma?

What do substance abuse, eating disorders, sexual addictions, and mental health disorders all have in common? Trauma. Unresolved emotional trauma from your past is often at the root of many struggles associated with addiction and mental health. That’s why it’s important to know the different types of trauma that exist so you can take steps to pursue your own healing or help someone you love find theirs. 

Emotional Trauma, Defined

The American Psychological Association defines trauma as an emotional response to a terrible event. Such events may include:

• Crime
• Natural disaster
• A serious accident
• Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
• Experiencing or witnessing violence
• The death of a loved one
• War

 

A traumatic event causes you to feel unsafe, physically or emotionally. Consequently, you may be in shock or in denial immediately after it occurs, but symptoms of trauma can linger long after the event subsides. These symptoms can lead to a lasting emotional response called emotional trauma, no matter what types of trauma that cause it. Signs of emotional trauma in adults can include:

• Persistent anxiety or fear
• Emotional numbness
• Flashbacks and intrusive memories
• Avoidance behaviors
• Difficulty concentrating
• Headaches, stomach aches, and other unexplained physical symptoms
• Hypervigilance
• Mood swings

 

Emotional trauma can arise from one singular, large-scale traumatic event, called “Big T” trauma (car accidents, sexual assault, school shootings, etc.). But it can also come from several smaller traumatic events over time called “Little T” trauma (divorce, racism, financial troubles, chronic illness, etc.). 

The Main 3 Types of Trauma

Emotional trauma can happen to anyone, and when it does, it affects your emotional, mental, and physical well-being. While responses to trauma can vary based on the way you process it, the mental health community has established 3 types of trauma that you can primarily experience: acute trauma, chronic trauma, and complex trauma. Knowing these types of trauma can help you more easily understand any ongoing negative feelings and how to better cope with your past trauma. 

Acute Trauma

Acute trauma is defined as a single traumatic occurrence or event, such as a natural disaster, a sudden death, or a vehicular accident. This type of trauma causes your brain to shift into self-preservation mode. This means the systems within your brain that aren’t associated with your survival will temporarily be “offline” until the traumatic event ends. Caused by endorphins, this process allows you to survive a dangerous experience. Common symptoms associated with acute trauma include:

• Difficulty getting good sleep (or sleeping in general)
• Anger, rage, and irritability
• An illogical distrust of other people
• High levels of anxiety or panic
• Disassociating yourself from your surroundings or other people

 

According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, up to 33% of people who experience trauma can deal with acute stress disorder (ASD) as a result. ASD’s symptoms are similar to that of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but only occur within a month after experiencing the traumatic event. However, over 80% of people with ASD go on to have PTSD eventually. 

Chronic Trauma

Unlike acute trauma, chronic trauma arises from experiencing ongoing trauma in your life. It takes place as a result of a series of traumatic events, which may include bullying, domestic violence, ongoing sexual abuse, or racism. This type of trauma can often lead you to seek out unhealthy coping mechanisms like drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. If you experience chronic trauma, your symptoms may be similar to acute trauma, but also can include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Flashbacks
• Unpredictable emotional outbursts
• Low self-esteem
• Denial
• Distorted memories
• Sadness and confusion
• Anxiety

Complex Trauma

Of the different types of trauma, complex trauma is usually the most complicated, as the name would suggest. Complex trauma comes from being exposed to multiple traumatic events over time that are interrelated. Yet its definition also includes the difficulties you can face as a result of coping with and adjusting to these traumatic experiences as a survivor. After all, the events associated with complex trauma can lead to severe emotional and psychological distress.

Complex trauma is similar to chronic trauma in that it can arise from similar ongoing experiences, such as bullying, domestic violence, poverty, or neglect. However, complex trauma often occurs as a result of ongoing interactions with others over extended periods of time. This means it can usually start in childhood and is inflicted likely by people you know (including family members) over and over again. 

Adverse Childhood Experiences and the Different Types of Trauma

For many, the different types of trauma they experience can arise from specific events in childhood called adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines ACEs as potentially traumatic events that occur between ages 0 and 17. Examples of ACEs include:

• Physical, sexual, and emotional abuse
• Neglect
• Living with a relative with a mental illness
• Having an incarcerated parent
• Witnessing a family member treated violently
• Living with a substance abuser
• Divorce

 

These ACEs can represent any of the 3 types of trauma mentioned earlier. Not only do they negatively impact your formative years, but they can also affect your health and overall wellness into adulthood. And if left untreated, some of the long-term effects of childhood trauma include addiction, obesity, low self-esteem, self-destructive behaviors, and more. 

Heal From Your Type of Trauma at Integrative Life Center

When you’re aware of your trauma, it means you can begin to take steps to heal from it. At Integrative Life Center in Nashville, TN, we provide both trauma treatment and dual diagnosis treatment for overcoming trauma’s lasting influence, as well as co-occurring disorders like substance abuse. To get started, contact our team now. 

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Is Drinking Addictive? Signs You Might Be Developing an Alcohol Dependency

When it comes to people drinking alcohol, the line between casual drinking and developing an addiction can be surprisingly thin. With alcohol being a common social lubricant, it can be easy to overlook the warning signs that indicate something more serious might be developing. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Is drinking addictive?”, or if you’ve started questioning your relationship with alcohol, this guide is for you. We’ll explore the signs of alcohol dependency, why drinking can become addictive, and when it’s time to seek professional help. Integrative Life Centers in Nashville, TN will offer your addiction treatment guide to help you or your loved ones on your journey to freedom.

Why is Drinking Addictive?

Before diving into the signs of alcohol addiction, it’s essential to understand why drinking is addictive in the first place. Alcohol affects the brain by releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This creates a sense of euphoria, relaxation, and reduced inhibitions, making it an attractive escape from stress or anxiety.

Over time, however, the brain becomes accustomed to the dopamine surges caused by alcohol consumption. To achieve the same pleasurable effects, individuals often find themselves drinking more. This cycle of increasing consumption can lead to physical and psychological dependency, where the individual feels compelled to drink even when they recognize its negative impact.

Signs You Might Be Developing an Alcohol Dependency

Recognizing the early signs of alcohol addiction is crucial in preventing it from escalating into a more severe issue. Here are some red flags that might suggest you’re developing a dependency:

1. Increased Tolerance: If you find that you need to drink more to achieve the same effect, this could be an early sign of dependency. As your body becomes accustomed to alcohol, it takes larger quantities to feel the same buzz or relaxation.
2. Craving Alcohol: Regularly thinking about drinking or planning your day around alcohol consumption is a strong indicator that your relationship with alcohol is becoming problematic.
3. Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to drinking or recovering from a hangover is a clear sign that alcohol is starting to take precedence over other important aspects of your life.
4. Failed Attempts to Cut Back: If you’ve tried to reduce your alcohol intake but found it challenging to do so, this is a major warning sign. Struggling to cut back often indicates that your body and mind have become dependent on alcohol.
5. Drinking in Secret: Hiding your drinking habits from friends, family, or colleagues suggests that you’re aware of the problem but are not yet ready to confront it.
6. Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms: Physical symptoms like shakiness, sweating, nausea, or irritability when not drinking are signs that your body has developed a dependency on alcohol.

Criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), alcohol use disorder (AUD) is diagnosed based on specific criteria. These criteria include:

• Drinking more or for a longer period than intended
• Unsuccessful efforts to cut down or stop drinking
• Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking
• Craving alcohol
• Failing to fulfill major obligations at work, school, or home due to drinking
• Continuing to drink despite problems caused or worsened by alcohol
• Giving up or reducing important activities because of drinking
• Drinking in situations where it’s physically dangerous
• Developing tolerance (needing more alcohol to feel its effects)
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking

If you recognize yourself in two or more of these criteria, it’s important to consider seeking help for alcohol use disorder.

When to Seek Help: Understanding Alcohol Addiction Treatment

If you’ve identified with any of the signs or criteria mentioned, it may be time to seek professional help. Alcohol addiction treatment is designed to help individuals regain control over their lives and break free from the cycle of dependency. Treatment options vary, but they often include a combination of medical care, therapy, and holistic practices.

• Alcohol Rehab: Alcohol rehab centers provide a structured environment where individuals can focus on their recovery. These centers offer medical detox, therapy, and support to help you manage withdrawal symptoms and address the root causes of your addiction.
• Residential Alcohol Rehab: For those with severe alcohol dependency, residential alcohol rehab offers 24/7 care in a supportive, alcohol-free environment. This option is ideal for individuals who need to step away from their daily life to focus entirely on their recovery.
• Holistic Alcohol Rehab Center: A holistic approach to alcohol rehab addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This type of treatment often includes therapy, nutrition counseling, physical fitness, and complementary therapies such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture. ILC offers a holistic approach to alcohol rehab for a well rounded treatment.

Coping Skills for Addiction

Developing coping skills for addiction is a crucial part of the recovery process. These skills help individuals manage triggers and stressors without turning to alcohol. Common coping strategies include:

• Mindfulness Meditation: Practicing mindfulness helps you stay present and aware of your thoughts and feelings without becoming overwhelmed by them. This can reduce the urge to drink when faced with stress or emotional challenges.
• Physical Exercise: Regular physical activity can boost your mood and reduce stress, making it easier to resist the temptation to drink.
• Healthy Hobbies: Engaging in activities you enjoy can provide a positive outlet for your energy and emotions. Whether it’s gardening, painting, or hiking, finding a hobby can be a valuable part of your recovery journey.

A Guide to Holistic Recovery

If you’re considering alcohol addiction treatment, it’s essential to find a program that aligns with your needs and values. Holistic alcohol rehab centers like ILC offer a comprehensive approach to recovery, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of addiction. Look for programs that include:

• Individual and Group Therapy: Counseling sessions help you explore the underlying causes of your addiction and develop strategies for long-term sobriety.
• Meditation for Alcohol Addiction: Meditation can be a powerful tool for managing cravings and reducing stress. Many holistic rehab centers incorporate meditation practices into their treatment plans.
• Alcohol Rehab Retreat: An alcohol rehab retreat offers a peaceful, supportive environment where you can focus on your recovery without distractions. These retreats often include activities like yoga, nature walks, and nutrition counseling to promote healing.

Integrative Life Center in Nashville, TN

So, is drinking addictive? The answer is yes—alcohol can be highly addictive, especially when consumed regularly or in large quantities. Recognizing the early signs of alcohol dependency and seeking help can prevent the progression of addiction and pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling life.

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol use, don’t hesitate to seek support from a Integrative Life Center in Nashville, TN. With the right treatment and coping skills, recovery is within reach. Give us a call at (615) 891-2226 today.

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Sex After Sexual Sobriety: Advice for a Recovering Addict

Is it possible to have healthy sex after sexual sobriety? What does sober sex even look like? Those questions may be on your mind as you navigate your sexual addiction recovery and begin to think about your life back in the real world. 

For some, the thought of becoming sexually sober may feel out of reach right now. After all, it may seem hard to separate sex from the sex addiction that for many has derailed their lives up to this point. But it’s important to know that you can achieve a healthy, sober sex life in recovery. 

Abstinence or Sex After Sexual Sobriety?

The end goal of sex addiction recovery doesn’t work the same as drug or alcohol addiction. While you know you want to stop using cocaine for good if you’re in cocaine addiction treatment, you’re not necessarily aiming for a life of celibacy if you’re a recovering sex addict. 

However, many sex addiction programs can require you to maintain sexual abstinence (including masturbation) for a period of time while in treatment. Only temporary, this abstinence may last for a period of 30 to 90 days or longer. You could be in this phase right now. 

Abstinence, though difficult, can be very beneficial in this stage as it allows you to gain valuable perspective on your sex addiction. Working alongside a CSAT therapist, you’re able to identify your problematic sexual urges, activities, and behaviors, as well as the triggers that cause you to pursue your sexual addiction. 

Abstinence during sex addiction treatment gives you the space you need to heal. However, it is not the ultimate goal of sex addiction recovery. You’re human, after all, so saying farewell to sex for good isn’t healthy. Instead, your goal is to learn how to remove your unhealthy sexual behaviors and cultivate healthy sexual intimacy. Therefore, healthy sex after sexual sobriety is a perfectly desirable outcome in the recovery process. Sober sex isn’t something you should expect to accomplish overnight, but you can get there eventually with the right effort. 

Prioritizing Non-Sexual Intimacy 

Part of the journey toward a sexually sober lifestyle includes learning how to cultivate healthy non-sexual intimacy with others, including your partner, family members, friends, and even yourself. This often should be prioritized first as you work towards sex after sexual sobriety. In fact, learning how to have healthy emotional intimacy with others is a foundational skill for sober sex. It helps you begin to understand how to build healthy sexual intimacy with your partner or spouse—without the pressures, intensity, and compulsivity associated with sex addiction. 

Sex After Sexual Sobriety: Defining Sober Sex and Establishing Boundaries

Because sexual sobriety doesn’t mean long-term abstinence, defining sober sex can be a bit of a moving target. It often looks different for different people, and likely will change as you navigate your recovery. Since sexual sobriety—like hypersexual disorder—is a highly individualized experience, it’s important to come up with a specific definition of sexual sobriety for your own life, and create some healthy boundaries that can help you stick to it. 

A clear definition of sobriety is always the better option, as it’s easier to follow. With that said, many recovering sex addicts will seek help from their therapist or recovery support team to complete this step, usually in the form of a “contract” or written recovery plan. This plan usually consists of three defined tiers:

• The Inner Boundary: The buck stops here if you want to stay sexually sober. These are the specific problematic sexual behaviors that you wish to avoid, such as paying for sex, watching porn, going to strip clubs, engaging in infidelity, etc. 
• The Middle Boundary: This includes triggering situations and warning signs that may lead to inner boundary behaviors, including specific people, places, or activities. Examples could be using the computer late at night, poor self-care, and overworking. 
• The Outer Boundary: This boundary is where you want to be long-term. It includes the behaviors and characteristics that reflect a sexually sober lifestyle, such as personal hobbies, exercise, spending more time with family, and self-care practices. 

 

This sexual sobriety plan can be especially helpful to keep you accountable. When faced with future sexual triggers and challenges, having this plan in place can help you stay the course in your recovery without sex or porn relapse. 

What Healthy Intimacy Looks Like for the Sexually Sober

Part of pursuing healthy sex after sexual sobriety is building healthy intimacy with your partner or spouse. However, with sex addiction pulling the strings of your life for so long, it may be hard to know what that looks like in a sober day-to-day life. According to VerywellMind.com, here are some key traits that are important to have in a sexually sober relationship:

• Mutual well-being: Instead of shame, compulsivity, and disconnection, sex between you and your partner creates feelings of affirmation, connection, and safety. 
• Emotional vulnerability: Rather than using sex to hide, you and your partner embrace being vulnerable with one another and share your feelings honestly. 
• Non-genital pleasure: Finding intimate, sensual pleasure is about more than just having sex. You can nurture your sexual desires in other ways, including taking a bath together, cuddling on the couch, or dancing. 
• Healthy coping skills: When challenges, stress, or disappointment arise, you don’t have to resort to sex to find relief. Instead, you can both cope together in healthier ways, such as exercising, meditating, or socializing with others. 
• Trust: You and your partner can feel safe with one another and honor boundaries as you navigate each stage of your relationship. This may take time to achieve, especially if your partner has experienced betrayal trauma due to your addiction.  

Pursuing Sex Addiction Recovery? We Can Help

Remember, healthy sex after sexual sobriety is possible. And the addiction-free life you deserve is attainable with effort and intentionality. If you need professional assistance along your recovery journey, our intimacy disorder treatment program can help at Integrative Life Center. Whether it’s intensive outpatient care or aftercare options, we provide multiple resources to help you stay sexually sober. To learn more, contact us today.

The post Sex After Sexual Sobriety: Advice for a Recovering Addict appeared first on Integrative Life Center.

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How EMDR Therapy Helps with Addiction Recovery

Addiction is a complex and multifaceted condition that often stems from underlying trauma and unresolved emotional pain. Many individuals struggle to break free from the cycle of addiction, not just because of their dependence on substances, but because their emotional wounds continue to drive destructive behaviors. EMDR for addiction offers a unique and powerful way to address these emotional triggers, reprocessing trauma that often fuels addictive behaviors.

Here, we’ll explore how EMDR therapy for addiction works, its effectiveness in the recovery process, and how it helps individuals heal from the root causes of their addiction.

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy technique that helps individuals process and integrate traumatic memories. It is particularly effective in treating individuals who suffer from trauma-informed care and have experienced significant emotional wounds that contribute to addiction. The therapy involves using bilateral stimulation (often through guided eye movements) while the patient recalls traumatic memories. This process helps to reprocess the trauma in a way that reduces its emotional charge, making it easier for the person to cope with these memories in a healthier way.

When it comes to EMDR for addiction, this therapy is used to identify and address the deep-rooted emotional triggers that contribute to substance use. Often, people with addiction turn to substances as a way to numb or escape from painful memories or emotions. By reprocessing these memories and reducing the emotional pain attached to them, EMDR helps individuals break the cycle of addiction and develop healthier coping skills for substance abuse.

How EMDR Helps with Addiction Recovery

Addiction often has underlying causes such as past trauma, abuse, or compulsive behavior that drives the need to self-medicate. EMDR for addiction works by identifying these triggers and helping individuals process the emotions linked to their past experiences.

Through the EMDR protocol for addiction, therapists help clients reframe their trauma-related memories, reducing their emotional intensity. This reprocessing helps individuals avoid the patterns of substance abuse that arise when painful memories or emotional triggers come to the surface.

Some of the ways EMDR for addiction aids in recovery include:

• Reducing the emotional impact of trauma: Many individuals with addiction carry unresolved emotional pain from past traumatic experiences. EMDR therapy for addiction targets these memories, allowing individuals to process and move past them without the overwhelming emotional charge that often triggers substance use.
• Improving emotional regulation: Once traumatic memories are reprocessed, individuals are better able to regulate their emotions. This helps them deal with stress, anxiety, and emotional triggers in healthier ways, reducing the need for substances as a coping mechanism.
• Addressing the root cause of addiction: Instead of simply treating the symptoms of addiction, EMDR for addiction works to uncover and heal the root causes. Many individuals struggling with addiction have experienced trauma, whether in childhood or as adults. EMDR directly targets these issues, helping individuals heal from the inside out.

EMDR for Sex Addiction

Addiction is not limited to substances alone. EMDR for sex addiction can be particularly helpful for individuals who use sex as a way to cope with trauma or emotional pain. Just like substance addiction, sex addiction can stem from unresolved emotional issues. EMDR therapy for addiction can help individuals address the trauma that fuels their compulsive sexual behaviors, allowing them to regain control and form healthier relationships with themselves and others.

Integrating EMDR into a Holistic Addiction Treatment Plan

While EMDR for addiction can be highly effective in treating trauma, it is often most effective when integrated into a comprehensive holistic drug rehab plan. At Integrative Life Center, we combine EMDR therapy with evidence-based addiction treatment and holistic treatment approaches to support the whole person. This includes addressing both the physical and emotional components of addiction through a combination of therapy, support groups, and wellness practices like yoga and nutrition.

Incorporating EMDR therapy for addiction into a residential treatment setting provides individuals with the focused care they need to process their trauma while receiving the support and structure necessary to overcome addiction. This combination of therapies ensures that individuals have the tools they need to heal, rebuild, and maintain long-term sobriety.

How EMDR Supports Treatment Goals for Substance Abuse

The main goal of EMDR for addiction is to help individuals break free from the emotional triggers that drive their substance use. Through trauma resolution and emotional processing, individuals are empowered to develop healthier coping mechanisms. This directly supports treatment goals for substance abuse, such as:

• Building emotional resilience: By healing from trauma, individuals are better equipped to handle the ups and downs of life without turning to substances.
• Improving self-awareness and insight: As clients process their trauma, they gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their behaviors, which helps them maintain sobriety.
• Creating lasting behavioral change: Reprocessing the emotional root causes of addiction helps individuals create new, healthier patterns of behavior that support long-term recovery.

Finding the Right Therapy and Recovery for You

EMDR for addiction is a powerful therapeutic tool that helps individuals heal from the trauma and emotional pain that often contribute to substance use. By reprocessing traumatic memories and reducing the emotional charge of these experiences, EMDR helps individuals break free from the cycle of addiction and build a healthier, sober life.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction and trauma, EMDR therapy may be the key to unlocking lasting recovery. At Integrative Life Center, we offer EMDR for addiction as part of our comprehensive treatment approach, combining it with trauma-informed care, holistic rehab center services, and dual diagnosis treatment for those who need it.

To learn more about how EMDR therapy can support your recovery, or to explore our substance abuse recovery programs, contact us today at (615) 891-2226. 

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