It is wonderful that you are recognizing that you have low self-esteem (and it sounds like you DO want to feel better about yourself!), you have a need for adrenaline rush, and are experiencing other addictive-like behaviors. This combination indicates your need for counseling and a support group...you can get better and feel better! It will take some work on your part to learn how to improve your feelings of self-worth, find healthy alternatives to getting an adrenaline rush, and begin putting this all into practice while getting rid of your habitual/unhealthy behaviors. You may even be depressed and using these behaviors to "self medicate", so it is crucial to make an appointment with a Psychologist for a proper diagnosis, in order to begin treatment for your specific conditions.
It will take commitment and effort on your part, but there is help available:
- Certified Sex Therapists are Psychologists with expertise in sexual compulsion or addiction: locate sex therapist or locate psychologist in sexual health.
- Mayo Clinic: Compulsive Sexual Behavior. You can review the treatment options: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/compulsive-sexual-behavior/DS00144/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs:
Coping, Treatment and Support:
"Although it may be difficult to overcome compulsive sexual behavior on your own, you can take steps to care for yourself with healthy coping skills while getting professional treatment.
* Stick to your treatment plan. Take medications as directed and attend scheduled therapy sessions. Remember that it can be hard work and that you may have occasional setbacks.
* Educate yourself. Learn about compulsive sexual behavior so that you can better understand its causes and your treatment.
* Discover what drives you. Identify situations, thoughts and feelings that may trigger sexual compulsions so that you can take steps to manage them.
* Avoid risky situations. Don't jeopardize your health or that of others or by putting yourself into situations where you'll be tempted to engage in risky sexual practices.
* Get treatment for substance abuse or other mental health problems. Your addictions, depression, anxiety and stress can feed off each other, leading to a cycle of unhealthy behavior.
* Find healthy outlets. Explore healthy ways to rechannel your sexual compulsions through exercise and recreational activities.
* Practice relaxation and stress management. Try such stress-reduction techniques as meditation, yoga or tai chi.
* Stay focused on your goal. Recovery from compulsive sexual behavior can take time. Keep motivated by keeping your recovery goals in mind and reminding yourself that you can repair damaged relationships, friendships and financial problems."
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Thank you for your reply...this is very helpful!
It is wonderful that you are recognizing that you have low self-esteem (and it sounds like you DO want to feel better about yourself!), you have a need for adrenaline rush, and are experiencing other addictive-like behaviors. This combination indicates your need for counseling and a support group...you can get better and feel better! It will take some work on your part to learn how to improve your feelings of self-worth, find healthy alternatives to getting an adrenaline rush, and begin putting this all into practice while getting rid of your habitual/unhealthy behaviors. You may even be depressed and using these behaviors to "self medicate", so it is crucial to make an appointment with a Psychologist for a proper diagnosis, in order to begin treatment for your specific conditions.
It will take commitment and effort on your part, but there is help available:
- Certified Sex Therapists are Psychologists with expertise in sexual compulsion or addiction: locate sex therapist or locate psychologist in sexual health.
- Mayo Clinic: Compulsive Sexual Behavior. You can review the treatment options: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/compulsive-sexual-behavior/DS00144/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs:
Coping, Treatment and Support:
December 26, 2010 - 8:57am"Although it may be difficult to overcome compulsive sexual behavior on your own, you can take steps to care for yourself with healthy coping skills while getting professional treatment.
* Stick to your treatment plan. Take medications as directed and attend scheduled therapy sessions. Remember that it can be hard work and that you may have occasional setbacks.
* Educate yourself. Learn about compulsive sexual behavior so that you can better understand its causes and your treatment.
* Discover what drives you. Identify situations, thoughts and feelings that may trigger sexual compulsions so that you can take steps to manage them.
* Avoid risky situations. Don't jeopardize your health or that of others or by putting yourself into situations where you'll be tempted to engage in risky sexual practices.
* Get treatment for substance abuse or other mental health problems. Your addictions, depression, anxiety and stress can feed off each other, leading to a cycle of unhealthy behavior.
* Find healthy outlets. Explore healthy ways to rechannel your sexual compulsions through exercise and recreational activities.
* Practice relaxation and stress management. Try such stress-reduction techniques as meditation, yoga or tai chi.
* Stay focused on your goal. Recovery from compulsive sexual behavior can take time. Keep motivated by keeping your recovery goals in mind and reminding yourself that you can repair damaged relationships, friendships and financial problems."
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