The Diversity of Addiction

Sex and drug addiction has become one of the most dangerous and life-threatening combinations in modern society. From an addiction perspective, sex and drug addiction are similar in that they both involve compulsive behaviors, not to mention the potential consequences associated with these behaviors. Unfortunately, when individuals combine addictions, the risk of serious harm is increased even further.

When talking about sex and drug addiction, it can be difficult to separate the two. They often go hand-in-hand, as sex and drug use can feed off of each other in unhealthy and dangerous ways. A sex addict may turn to drugs in order to numb the feelings associated with the addiction, which can lead to further compulsive behavior. Similarly, a drug addict may turn to sex as a form of self-medication in an attempt to escape the reality of their drug use.

The combination of sex and drug addiction creates a lethal cocktail with a particularly high risk for potentially devastating physical and emotional consequences. Those with this dual addiction have more difficulty dealing with emotions than those with a single addiction, which can lead to further drug and/or sexual abuse.

Those struggling with both addictions often self-medicate their feelings of loneliness, depression, and self-hatred with both drugs and sex. This can create a vicious cycle wherein the individual’s drug and sexual cravings become intertwined and feeding off each other in order to attain some sort of momentary satisfaction. Unfortunately, individuals with this type of dual addiction often require a higher tolerance of both substances in order to obtain the same effects, making it even more difficult to still their cravings.

There is also a strong correlation between sex and drug addiction and mental illness, as addiction often serves as a form of self-medicating exacerbating pre-existing mental health issues. In order for those struggling with a dual addiction to obtain the help they need, they must be first be made aware of the consequences of their behaviors and of the cycles they’ve found themselves in.

Treatment for dual addiction is best provided through a holistic approach, as it is a complex and multi-faceted condition. It is especially important that treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment, which is used to better understand the individual’s relationship with substances and sex. Treatment should include both medical and psychological components in order to ensure the individual is as safe as possible while undergoing treatment, which may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, individual counseling, as well as group therapy.

The cause of dual addiction is often rooted in underlying psychological and emotional traumas that have yet to be addressed. It is important to understand and recognize these underlying issues as they are often the root cause of the addiction itself.

Dual addiction is an incredibly serious and potentially fatal condition. It is vital that those suffering get the help they need in order to break free from the bounds of this dangerous combination of addictions. Treatment is available and necessary for a full recovery. With both sex and drug addiction, there is always hope.