William Burroughs writes, “Whether you sniff it, smoke it, eat it, or shove it up your ass the result is the same: addiction.”
Sex addiction is, in most ways, the same as any other addiction. At the very least, it is defined by the same basic criteria:
- Preoccupation to the point of obsession with the substance or behavior of choice.
- Loss of control over use of the substance or behavior, typically evidenced by failed attempts to quit or cut back.
- Directly related negative consequences—relationship trouble, issues at work or in school, declining physical health, depression, anxiety, diminished self-esteem, isolation, financial woes, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, legal trouble, etc.
Just for Today: Ask yourself if your sexual behavior meets the criteria for addiction.