Why Does My Sexual Addiction Become More Difficult to Avoid During the Holidays?

What is sexual addiction?

 

Sexual addiction can change the way your brain works. Like other addictions, it's the compulsive urge to act upon a thought in order to relieve a craving or quiet the mind. Unlike other addictions, sexual addiction is not in the DSM. However, there are many clinicians who understand the reality of the addiction. Likewise, many living with sexual addiction acknowledge their desire to stop but lack the ability to do so. 

Sexual addiction includes the compulsive involvement in sexual activities and behaviors. Furthermore, those with an addiction can not stop participating in the behaviors, even if they want to. Another sign of addiction is when life becomes unmanageable without your addiction. For example, if you need to view porn first in order to enjoy intimacy, you may be relying on your addiction to manage this area of life. 

Why Are the Holidays Difficult for Those With Sexual Addiction?

It's no secret that stress, depression, and grief disappear during the holidays. In fact, feelings like this may be exacerbated during this time of year. But why is it that many living with addiction, including sexual addiction, struggle to avoid relapse during the holidays? 

Triggers are common during the holidays. For example, parties often include alcohol, which can be easy to overindulge in. For one living in recovery from alcohol, it can be a nightmare. Then, there are the expectations that may feel impossible to meet. Feelings of inadequacy can leave you desperate for an escape. Furthermore, financial stress can be a burden you can't seem to carry. Not to mention, feelings of grief and loss can hit extra hard during the holidays. As a result, reality can begin to feel much too difficult to remain in. Stress, triggers, and negative emotions during a time when many appear to be so happy can lead to moments of overwhelm. So, what can you do? How can you avoid your sexual addiction when triggers leave you wanting to engage? 

What Can I Do To Avoid Turning to My Sexual Addiction During the Holidays? 

Your biggest key to success will be a solid relapse prevention plan. For example, what situations are likely to be your biggest triggers? Then, how do you handle the temptations during moments of despair? Likewise, what can you do to fill your time during your holiday break? By planning and preparing with tools and ideas that you know can work for you, you can set yourself up for success. 

Another critical component to your success is self-care. However, self-care is often something that takes a back seat during the holidays. After all, parties often offer unhealthy food choices and late nights. Furthermore, due to packed schedules, it can be hard to find time to fit in exercise. Likewise, the weather during the holidays can make it difficult to spend time outside. In other words, there are many circumstances that can make this time of year difficult for anyone. Adding sexual addiction to the mix can feel even more defeating. However, there are many who are successful in avoiding relapse during this time of year. As a result, you have every reason to hope for the same success. 

At Advanced Trauma Care & Recovery, we specialize in treating sexual addiction. As such, we understand the complexities of sexual addiction. We also recognize the stressors that can come with the holidays. As a result, we may be able to help set you up for success this upcoming year. Call us today.