Am I Married To A Sex Addict?

If you are reading this, more than likely you are feeling confused, angry, helpless and hopeless, or even betrayed. You may have discovered your partner is having an affair, chatting and flirting with people online, viewing pornography frequently, or other “inappropriate” behaviors. You are not alone! It is estimated that approximately 10 million addicts and partners in the United States alone suffer from sex addiction.

We seldom talk about sex addiction and often feel ashamed, blaming ourselves for not recognizing the signs or being there for our loved ones. It is important to understand that an evaluation for sex addiction can only be completed by a trained mental health professional (Certified Sexual Addiction therapist) . The assessment identifies specific sexual behaviors which are evaluated to help the clinician determine if sex addiction is present.

Each individual case is unique. Your partner may be doing things and/or behaving in certain ways that do strongly indicate the presence of addiction and those behaviors should not be discounted. The best thing you can do when you suspect addiction is to talk to a specially trained professional (Certifies Sexual Addiction therapist) about your concerns. He or she can best help you determine how to approach the subject with your partner and make a plan that will ensure the safety of you, your partner, and children (if applicable).

It is important to remember, you can get through this and learn to trust again...There is a whole world of other people out there who are willing to walk beside you. Take the time to take care of yourself, reach out for support, and pursue your dreams. Call us today!

Adapted from Sonja Rudie, MA, CSAT
Mending a Shattered Heart (2011), pg. 145