Relapse is a term often used when discussing substance use disorder recovery. It also applies to sex addiction. Like alcohol or drug use, a relapse in sexual addiction may be emotionally and physically challenging. However, as individuals work toward long-term recovery, sex addiction relapse doesn’t mean a person is beyond hope.
If you or a loved one experiences a sexual addiction relapse, Recovery Ranch is here to help. Our sexual recovery program assists clients in managing their behaviors and addressing underlying issues that contribute to addictive patterns. Call us today at 1.844.876.7680 to find out how we can help you navigate your recovery journey.
What Is Sex Addiction?
Sex addiction is a mental health condition in which individuals cannot manage their sexual behavior or impulses. Those who experience it have obsessive and compulsive behaviors related to sexual activities that are often self-destructive. People with sexual addiction may struggle with guilt or shame and have difficulty forming healthy relationships due to their inability to control their urges.
People suffering from sex addiction can become fixated on specific activities such as:
- Frequently masturbating
- Having multiple partners outside of committed relationships
- Using pornography as an escape
The exact cause of sex addiction is still unknown, though research points to a combination of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors. Furthermore, people with substance use disorders or other compulsive behaviors are also more at risk for developing this condition.
What Is Relapse in Sexual Addiction?
A sex addiction relapse is an individual’s return to actions related to their addiction. It involves returning to the behavior to cope with emotional distress or other difficulties.
Relapse does not mean the same thing for everyone and can manifest differently depending on a person’s situation. For example, someone abstaining from compulsive sexual behavior may relapse by viewing lustful images. In contrast, someone refraining from using pornography may relapse by engaging in an inappropriate online activity such as sexting or cybersex.
Relapse in sexual addiction often occurs when someone feels overwhelmed, stressed, lonely, or insecure. Additionally, triggers can lead to a sexual addiction relapse, including seeing specific images or people, being alone, feeling bored or overwhelmed, or having easy access to certain activities associated with the addiction.
It is essential to know that relapse is a natural part of recovery, especially from something as complex as sexual addiction. It is possible for people recovering from sex addiction to have multiple relapses before finally achieving long-term abstinence.
How to Recover Following a Relapse
When individuals experience a sexual addiction relapse, they should face the issue without denial or excuses. This allows the recovery process to continue, as they can work with their addiction treatment professionals, family, or accountability partners without shame. People may reevaluate what triggers their behavior and reassess their tools for effectively managing cravings.
A relapse doesn’t mean that recovery from sexual addiction has ended; instead, it means a stressful event has occurred, or a person has crossed a boundary. Relapse in sexual addiction can become a chance to modify the recovery strategy and work through feelings that arise during stress.
Reach Out to The Ranch for Help with Sex Addiction
If you or a loved one experiences a relapse in sexual addiction, look no further than Recovery Ranch. The counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists in our sexual recovery program have helped countless individuals find healing and freedom. We understand that your experiences are unique, so we provide individualized care plans tailored to meet your needs.
At The Ranch, our experienced staff uses various therapeutic approaches to help clients break free from compulsive sexual behavior and begin living healthier, more fulfilling lives. Our goal is to provide support at every step so that individuals in recovery can navigate challenges with greater confidence and resilience. Don’t struggle anymore – contact us today at 1.844.876.7680.
