Drug dependency is a systematic issue that affects millions of people worldwide, regardless of the specific substance being used. The effects of drug dependence on the body and mind can vary depending on the drug in question, but the process of addiction and dependence remains the same.
Drugs that are commonly abused include alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit substances such as cocaine, marijuana, and heroin. Each of these drugs has unique effects on the body, but the science behind drug dependency is universal.
The journey from casual drug use to addiction is often a slow and gradual one. As a person continues to use drugs, the body becomes dependent on the substance to maintain normal levels of hormones and chemicals that were once released naturally. When the drug is taken away, the body experiences withdrawal effects, which can be painful and disorienting.
Alcohol is a widely used substance, with millions of people around the world consuming it in various forms. However, what starts as a casual drink can often turn into repeated use or even dependence.
When someone becomes dependent on alcohol, their body starts to depend on it in order to maintain baseline levels of chemicals and hormones that once provided a feeling of euphoria. Over time, these chemicals become necessary just to function and stopping alcohol consumption can lead to painful and disorienting withdrawal effects.
Alcohol dependence affects not only the body, but also the mind. Although the effects of alcohol may vary depending on the individual and the amount consumed, prolonged and excessive alcohol use can lead to physical, psychological, and social consequences. These may include liver damage, depression, and strained relationships.
Since 1988, Prescott House has been a pioneer in sex addiction treatment and provides 4 Certified Sex Addiction Therapists to provide the therapy needed to heal. There is not one specific factor that can be pinpointed to cause sexual addiction, there are many psychological, biological, and social factors that have been found to contribute to and enable this addiction. Proudly utilizing Dr. Carnes’ Thirty-Task Model, Prescott House helps treat men struggling with sexually compulsive behaviors. Operating in a therapeutic environment allows individuals to positively manage their addiction recovery. Utilizing self-esteem building tools for confidence, an overall sense of self-control is developed while re-entering the stream of life.
An in-depth sex addiction treatment program has been developed and headed by four Certified Sex Addiction Therapists (CSATs). Client support is provided through 12-step program attendance with positive community involvement and comradery.
Co-Occurring Substance Abuse
Some individuals may turn to the use of drugs, alcohol, or a combination of both in an attempt to conceal or rationalize their sex addiction, but it’s important to understand that these substances do not provide a true solution to the underlying issue and can actually lead to more problems and complications in the long run.
Read More about Co-Occurring Disorders
Risky Sexual Behaviors
Hiring escorts or sex workers to fulfill sexual desires can be seen as risky sexual behavior, as it can lead to STDs, STIs and legal consequences while also having negative impacts on mental and emotional health.
Read More about STD and STI Risks
Obsessed Ideation of Sex
Excessive and persistent thoughts and fixation on sex that may negatively impact one’s personal and professional life. It can lead to a distorted perception of reality and result in detrimental behavior patterns and decision-making.
Multiple Sexual Partners
Having multiple sexual partners through the use of dating apps or while in a committed relationship can be a sign of sex addiction. This behavior can lead to a constant need for novelty and an intense focus on sexual gratification, often at the expense of meaningful connections and relationships and lead to feelings of guilt and shame.
Read More about Tinder or Grindr Addiction
Sex Shame and Guilt
Individuals who engage in compulsive sexual behaviors may experience feelings of shame and guilt as a result. These negative emotions can contribute to the development of depression and anxiety, further compounding the challenges associated with compulsive sexual behavior. Shame can also be associated with compulsive masturbation and pornogrpahy use.
Promiscuous Sex Addict
Preoccupation with sexual encounters that often involve multiple partners, especially when they are in a committed relationship. Often considered to be compulsive this can have a significant impact on an individual’s personal and professional life leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and fear, as well as negative consequences for relationships and reputation.
Read More about the Effects of Sex Addiciton on Relationships
Pornography Sex Addict
A pornography sex addict is someone who becomes addicted to watching porn, cam performers, or other forms of sexual media. They may become so consumed with this habit that they neglect social or marital relationships.
Read More about the Science Behind Pornography Addiction
Fantasy Sex Addict
People who engage in obsessive sexual fantasies may do so as a means of suppressing past traumatic experiences or abuse. These fantasies can become all-consuming, affecting the individual’s relationships, work, and daily life.
Love Sex Addict
A love sex addict is someone who seeks intense romantic experiences and engages in multiple relationships, often at a fast pace. They may do so to fulfill a need for a sense of belonging, a desire for attention and validation, or to escape feelings of loneliness or emptiness. This can often coincide with attachment and intimacy disorders.
Read More about Lack of Intimacy and Empathy
Exhibitionist Sex Addict
Experiencing a rush from exposing themselves in public or performing sexually in front of others. Voyeurism, the act of observing others for sexual pleasure, is often intertwined with exhibitionism, as the addict seeks out new and daring opportunities for exhibitionism. Over time, their behavior becomes increasingly risky and compulsive, leading them to seek out new and daring opportunities for exhibitionism.
What sets Prescott House far ahead of many other leading programs and facilities is our effective focus with a combination of individual therapy, group therapy, and structured community re-integration. Therapeutic modalities used at the Prescott House include evidence-based techniques such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Psychodrama Therapies, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Sexual Addiction Screening allows individuals along with CSAT licensed trained professionals to develop an understanding of the extent of ones sexual compulsive behaviors.
PHASE 1StabilizationHEALTH MAINTENANCE |
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PHASE 2RejuvenationMEANING TO LIFE |
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PHASE 3ReconstructionCOMMUNITY REINTEGRATION |
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