Can Past Trauma Trigger a Cycle of Destructive Behaviors?

Sex and porn addiction seem to be making their way into headlines more frequently as of late. A handful of celebrities are in court facing a mix of legal consequences regarding severe sex and pornography violations. The definition of sex and porn addiction remains inconsistent or unclear. Yet, it's clear by the outcome of these cases that these behaviors come with serious consequences. So, what happens that leads people down this path, and does trauma have anything to do with it?

Regardless of why sex addiction forms, two wrongs don't make a right. In other words, sexual trauma does not offer a justification to harm others or break the law. With that being said, let's explore and see what research indicates regarding addiction and past trauma.

In this article, we'll look into the controversy surrounding the definition of sex addiction and the role trauma may have in this.

The Correlation Between Trauma Amid a Controversial Diagnosis.

Dr. Patrick Carnes is a world-renowned therapist known by some as the founder of sexual addiction therapy. He's the founder of the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP). Likewise, he is behind many cutting-edge recovery programs. Like many others in the field, he is certain that sex addiction is real and very serious.

On the contrary, other professionals, such as Dr. Marty Klein, feel a sex addiction diagnosis is useless. He says the misconception of sex in the public eye can cause people to fear their ability to control their own sexuality. The controversy seems to lie within the definition of typical human sexuality.

Research sheds light on the role of trauma in some cases of sex addiction. For example, those with sexual trauma may put themselves into positions that are sexual in nature. However, this time, they are in control or have the power to determine the outcome of the situation.

According to Dr. Carnes, those with sexual addiction are likely to develop a cycle of self-destructive behaviors. These cycles begin with strong negative emotions like hopelessness, anger, shame, or fear. Then, to numb or escape these emotions, they turn to sexual behaviors that bring pleasure. Over time, this cycle becomes more vicious, and consequences no longer serve as an effective deterrent. Regardless of the legal or moral repercussions, the behaviors become riskier. Likewise, the time frame between pleasure and a new flood of negative emotions decreases. And so, the cycle starts again.

When Trauma Leads to Extreme Behaviors

Trauma comes in many forms and can occur during a single incident or on a regular basis. Research regarding trauma and sexual addiction identifies a strong correlation between the two.

RecoveryVillage.com reports that a common factor among those with sex addiction is a troubled childhood. As a result, they're living with intense feelings of shame, isolation, and hopelessness. Furthermore, a study among those with sexual addictions found that 72% were physically abused as a child. Likewise, 81% were sexually abused, while 97% experienced emotional abuse.

Trauma that occurs through sexual abuse can heavily impact sexual development. As a result, it can impact proper physical, emotional, or psychological sexual development.

If you're living with unprocessed trauma, it could be feeding your addiction. We're here to help you get to the root of the problem. At Paradise Creek Recovery Center, we offer a safe, respectful environment as you work to heal. We're here to walk this journey with you and help you reclaim your life.

How to Tell if You're Helping Your Relationship or Provoking Bitterness

It's common for couples to meet at a crossroads where they must decide to stay together or separate. For example, you may find yourself in this place after discovering an affair or an addiction. Other times, the ups and downs of life lead to disconnection or feelings of dissatisfaction that dominate all other emotions. Being in a relationship can be hard to manage when the butterflies fly away.

Arriving at a place in your relationship where there is more contention than connection is difficult to overcome. Situations of betrayal and mistrust ignite flames of negativity and can burn the walls of your bond to the ground. However, many couples choose to stay and give it their all to rebuild their relationship from the foundation up.

If you're at the point of make or break and feel like your efforts are falling short, maybe it's time to turn inward. Let's go through this checklist and see if you're helping your relationship or provoking negativity.

When the Light of Love Burns Out in a Relationship

Negativity within a relationship can form quickly or build up over time. VeryWellMind.com highlights the top five reasons why relationships fail.

They are:

The exact reasons vary greatly and range in severity. In order to heal, couples may need months of therapy or a weekend workshop. Others find common ground by getting back to the basics of a weekly date night and intentional connections.

However, if you're in a troubled relationship and feel like giving your all isn't bringing back the spark, there may be more to consider. For example, engaging in certain behaviors could hinder the success of the relationship. Intentional or not, it's easy for couples to get hung up in behaviors that provoke negativity rather than promote love and warmth.

3 Behaviors Within a Relationship that Provoke Negativity

PsychAlive.org featured an article by Dr. Lisa Firestone. In Do You Provoke Your Partner? she warns of five behaviors that create conflict within your relationship. We'll highlight three of them.

  1. Complaining about or criticizing your partner. Couples may lose sight of seeing their partner as a separate adult. Instead, using "we" can make it easy to distort who your partner is by focusing on their worst traits. For example, if you get down on yourself, it may seem natural to be disrespectful and critical of your spouse, too. Instead of leading to positive change, criticism is likely to create feelings of resentment or retaliation.
  2. Deliberately pushing your partner's buttons. We all know certain words or actions that instantly provoke a reaction. Although your intent may not be spiteful, these things trigger a response within your partner that likely comes from a place of pain. Instead, try to be more aware and sensitive to your partner's triggers. Doing so can invite collaboration and compassion back into the relationship.
  3. Withholding things your partner enjoys. You may be aware of the little things that make your partner light up but find yourself withholding those. Examples include physical touch, giving your full attention, or sharing eye contact. Although you may feel justified in your actions, withholding removes the warmth from your relationship. Likewise, when both partners feel denied by the other, it can create a cycle of negative interactions. Dr. Firestone says if you notice you feel resistant to being kind or doing the little things for your partner, there may be a deeper issue. However, it's likely the problem resides within rather than with your partner.

Healing Your Relationship After a Betrayal

There are many issues that can create emotional distance within a relationship. Betrayal can be one of the most challenging issues to try and restore. However, you don't have to face it alone.

At Paradise Creek Recovery Center, we walk with you as you begin your healing journey to healing and recovery. Treating sex and porn addiction is our specialty. Likewise, we help couples begin to work through their grief and heartache. We're ready to help you.

Visit our website to learn more.

Do Sex Addiction Treatment Centers Really Help With Recovery?

Sex can be a positive, enjoyable experience that leads to deep connection. However, when a spouse becomes the object that fuels their partner's sex addiction, it no longer feels that way.

If you suffer from sex addiction, you are probably aware of the negative impact it has on your life. On the contrary, you may be in denial, as many addicts are. As a result, you may not recognize or allow yourself to see the harm your sex addiction is causing. Regardless, it's critical to understand the dangers of compulsive sexual behavior. Furthermore, it's vital to discover the best strategies to overcome your addiction.

Let's discuss how sex addiction treatment centers work and why they are the best resource for addiction recovery.

Is Sex Addiction A Thing?

Yes, it is a real thing. Sex addiction compels individuals to act sexually regardless of the consequences. Yet, there is controversy surrounding the actual diagnosis. As a result, you will not find sexual addiction listed in the DSM 5. As a result, it can make insurance coverage challenging for some.

Here's what we do know. Those with sex addiction have compulsive sex-related thoughts, urges, and behaviors. Likewise, they may have sexual cravings and compulsions they act upon, even if they don't want to. Another issue is negative emotions such as shame, fear, and guilt often follow their behaviors. Yet, despite consequences, they continue to respond to their impulses.

Over time, fantasy, planning, and engaging in sexual behaviors consume many areas of life. Likewise, Forbes.com reports that research indicates that drug addiction and sex addiction may work the same in the brain. This link may help us understand more about the addictive piece. For example, we know a rush of chemicals from the brain's reward system can lead to addiction.

Ongoing studies indicate there may be a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors. So, what may make you prone to sex addiction?

How Can Sex Addiction Treatment Centers Help?

The short answer is simple; treatment centers provide a safe environment for you to work on recovery without distractions. As a result, you're able to focus on healing and recovery. At the same time, you can acquire the skills necessary to overcome your sex addiction.

We live in a world that provides access to sites that fuel sex addiction, and that isn't going to change. Hence, the real need to learn how to live in recovery with technology all around you.

So, are you ready to enroll in our sex addiction treatment program and take the first step toward recovery?

What Types of Sex Addiction Treatment Are Available?

Sexual addiction treatment centers offer a unique approach for addicts to reclaim their lives. Going to a residential treatment center has many benefits. Likewise, it may be the first serious step towards overcoming your addiction. For many, motivation comes after a family intervention to encourage a loved one to seek treatment.

Treatment centers exist to provide a controlled, safe environment where you can work through issues and learn new skills. By design, sex addiction treatment centers help those living with addictions to sex and pornography.

Location is a factor in the outcome of a person's recovery. For example, trying to reach recovery while in the same environment, with the same stressors, is likely to lead you back to the same cycle.

Our facility is located in a rural setting, away from everyday distractions. As a result, you're able to focus on your healing and recovery.

In addition to offering a safe location, let's talk about what else a treatment center often includes:

Does Insurance Cover Sex Addiction Treatment Programs?

At Paradise Creek Recovery Center, we do not accept insurance. However, upon completion, we can provide you with the necessary documentation for reimbursement. Likewise, we provide an alternative to high-cost credit cards to assist patients in affording treatment. Through Prosper Healthcare Lending, you can apply for a healthcare loan.

Are Sex Addiction Treatment Programs are Available Near Me?

Let us show you why there is a reason for optimism. At Paradise Creek, we specialize in treating problematic sexual behaviors and sex addictions. As a result, we're equipped to help you reclaim your life. Likewise, we're here to help you get to the root of your addiction and heal. All this takes place in a dignified and respectful environment to get you well on your way to maintaining recovery.

Call us today to learn more about our services.

Powerful Steps to Move Your Struggling Relationship into the Future

Do you wish you could see the person you fell in love with? Like any relationship, the longer you're together, the more familiar you become with one another's flaws. Over time, you may feel desperate to remember how you once felt. Perhaps, the stress and busyness of life have you running in opposite directions. As a result, emotional and physical intimacy within your relationship may no longer exist. If your relationship is longing for connection, looking for answers in the past may not help you find happiness in your future, or could it?

When addiction steps into the relationship, it demands to be the priority. For some, the damage it does is irreversible. Instead of living happily ever after, the hopes and dreams of the relationship get lost in simply surviving. Overcoming a deficit within a relationship is challenging; that's why so many opt to walk away instead.

So, how do you work towards healing your relationship with so many obstacles in the way?

Looking Back on Your Relationship to Save Your Future

It may be no surprise to hear that it's normal for a romantic relationship to be met with thoughts of, "Should I stay or should I go?" However, knowing that isn't likely to help you feel much better. The good news is that mulling over the idea of divorce or break-up doesn't mean the relationship is doomed. Instead, there are some hard questions you'll both need to ask yourself.

  1. If you woke up and the present emotions you're feeling were gone, would you want to stay with your spouse?
  2. Suppose there has been infidelity or discovery of sexual addiction. In that case, if your love follows through with treatment and reaches and maintains recovery, could you offer forgiveness?
  3. How committed are the two of you to your relationship? If both of you are 100% in, that significantly improves your odds of success.

First, it's time to look back in time. Why? Right now, the issues you're dealing with may be too big to see anything but the person you resent or that hurt you. Instead, take some time to reflect on the moment early in your relationship when you knew your partner was going to be your person forever.

Can you remember when you first realized you were in love with your partner? Where were you when you first kissed? Reflecting on positive memories can be painful. On the contrary, it can also help motivate and remind you why you're trying so hard to work things out.

Healing Your Relationship After a Grim Discovery

Any relationship that involves healing from a betrayal will face unique challenges. As a result, working with a licensed therapist will be vital to healing and restoring trust and hope.

So, where do you begin? That depends on your situation, but most start with having a hard discussion regarding the questions above. After all, if only one of you wants to try to make things work, then looking into individual therapy and moving forward alone may be the next step.

The next step might include finding a treatment program. Likewise, you'll need to set boundaries and implement accountability and consequences.

With a plan in place, the healing takes time and effort. So, what can you do to begin taking little steps toward restoring a connection?

Steps to Move Your Relationship into the Future

Remembering that you were madly in love at one point can spark memories that help motivate you to find a path forward.

The furthest thing from your mind may be physical intimacy, and that's ok. Set a boundary and outline what will be acceptable such as holding hands or a quick kiss or hug. Instead, it's a good idea to try and find common ground and reconnect through play or light-hearted activities. This could be as simple as going for a walk together or playing a card game. Maybe it involves going on an adventure and trying something new. Regardless, taking sex out of the relationship may help remove pressure or fear of intimacy. Likewise, it may open the door to rekindle authentic feelings of trust and connection.

Another basic step to growing together is showing gratitude. Finding a way to express a daily "Thank you" can do wonders for your mindset and your relationship.

Finally, incorporate self-care into your day. Taking care of your needs is essential to your ability to heal. For example, if you're well-rested and making good food choices, you're more likely to feel more patient and clear-minded. Healing is a journey and a timely one.

Paradise Creek Recovery Center offers inpatient treatment to help individuals overcome their addictions. We're ready to help your relationship heal and recover. Call us today.

Valuable Ways to Begin Healing Relationships with Your Children After Rehab

Congratulations, you've recently reached recovery. Now, you may be facing the daunting task of repairing your relationships, including those with your children. So, what do you do? How do you begin to heal relationships with children after you return from rehab?

It's hard to say what your journey of repairing your relationships will look like. After all, everyone's situation is unique. However, there are some things you can do, regardless of the circumstances, you're going back into.

Let's talk about ways to heal your relationships with your children after rehab.

Ways to Heal Relationships with Your Children After Rehab

There are many ways you can work on healing your relationships after rehab. One of the first things you can do is begin a new pattern of intentional, honest communication. For example, your children will likely need to hear you say you're sorry. Next, they'll need you to let them use their voice to express their feelings and pain. This may be rather difficult to hear and handle, and it could also be triggering. However, it's a necessary component of their healing process and maybe yours too. Therefore, it may be a good idea to prepare with a therapist before and after you hold this family discussion.

Remember, as you work to repair your relationships with your children, trust will be crucial to their healing. Rebuilding trust takes time, transparency, and action. Likewise, the amount of time it takes to trust again can vary from person to person and child to child. Open communication and quick follow-through can help restore trust in relationships. Although you cannot force them to trust you, continuing to show your children that it's safe to trust you can work. However, this process may take a long time and requires patience along the way.

A fun way to work on healing your relationships with your children is to invite them to take part in activities that also help you maintain sobriety. For example, if you identified exercise as a stress reducer, ask your children to be active with you every day. Likewise, if you meditate every morning or night, you could have them join you. Having your children be actively involved in your recovery plan can be a great way to bond and, at the same time, help you with relapse prevention.

Repair Your Relationships with Your Children By Maintaining Recovery

Of course, after rehab, repairing your relationships with your children and spouse is where you'll want to focus. However, an essential component of their healing will be for you to maintain your sobriety. So, it's vital that your relapse prevention plan remains your priority. This includes being aware of stressors and doing whatever it takes to overcome triggers. By attending groups or therapy sessions, you're showing your family that you've made changes and plan on keeping them.

Now that you're in recovery, it's easy to want everyone to move forward. However, your family's pain may still be too raw to do so. In the meantime, the best thing you can do is to do everything it takes to maintain recovery and offer patience and transparency along the way.

At Paradise Creek Recovery Center, we understand the challenges that arise after you leave treatment. Likewise, we know how vital relationships are to maintaining recovery. As such, we work to ensure you have the tools you need to succeed. For example, we work with families and hold sessions over the phone or computer while you're in rehab. We want to help you recover life in every possible aspect.

Visit our website today to learn more.

25 Powerful Affirmations to Combat Depression and Anxiety in Your Fight for Recovery

Anxiety and depression may be present as you battle sex addiction. Therefore, working with a therapist who can address and treat co-occurring issues is crucial to your success. Likewise, an important part of recovery will be identifying a variety of tools you can easily turn to. Of course the goal is to equip you with tools to withstand symptoms of depression and anxiety rather than turning back to your addiction.

Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are common among those with addiction. Yet symptoms can drive you back to addictive behaviors in an attempt to escape your emotions. Therefore, an important part of your treatment plan will be discovering tools to help you when you're feeling triggered. For example, practicing positive affirmations every day can be both simple and powerful.

Saying positive affirmations aloud can be a valuable tool to help you in your recovery. Feelings such as depression, anxiety, shame, guilt, and hopelessness may hold you captive in your addiction. However, daily affirmations can help you begin to connect aspirations to reality. Likewise, they can help improve your self-esteem, and help you remember why you're fighting for your recovery.

25 Affirmations to Combat Depression and Anxiety as You Fight For Recovery

You may not know what to say to yourself in moments following a trigger. Suppose you're feeling overwhelmed by depression or anxiety. In that case, you may feel a strong desire to run back to your addiction. However, affirmations may help you overcome the symptoms that often fuel compulsive reactions.

Below you may find some of these affirmations strike a chord within that empowers you. Saying these aloud may help calm your mind and quiet your thoughts in a moment of discontentment. See what you think:

  1. I am of infinite value and worth.
  2. My past does not define who I am today.
  3. I am worthy of love and respect.
  4. I'm choosing to move forward with integrity.
  5. I love myself and can also give and receive love.
  6. I am letting go of shame because it only holds me back.
  7. Happiness is a choice, and I choose happiness.
  8. I am grateful for all that life offers me.
  9. I am safe and loved.
  10. I am at peace with my past.
  11. I forgive myself.
  12. I forgive others.
  13. I am learning and growing stronger every day.
  14. I respect and honor the boundaries my loved ones have set.
  15. This moment will pass.
  16. I have compassion for others and myself.
  17. There is no shame in reaching out for help.
  18. Talking about my thoughts and feelings is healthy.
  19. My mistakes are not failures, rather opportunities for growth.
  20. I am capable of change.
  21. Today I am choosing recovery.
  22. I'm choosing healthy relationships and connections over my addiction.
  23. I deserve sobriety.
  24. I am capable of finding a healthy solution to every problem.
  25. I can trust myself, my progress, and my path to recovery.

Facing Depression and Anxiety and an Addiction, Oh My!

It's no secret that overcoming addiction, especially sex addiction, is a lifelong process. While there is no cure, the longer you maintain recovery, the stronger you become. As a result, triggers and compulsions to respond may drastically reduce or diminish altogether. If you're living with depression or anxiety, the internal struggle to stay present can be overwhelming.

Finding hope in the journey is critical and positive affirmations are one of many tools you may turn to. Depression and anxiety can leave you wanting to run back to the very behaviors you're fighting to avoid. Therefore, we work with you to identify any and all underlying issues, to help set you up for success.

At Paradise Creek Recovery Center, we treat those with addictions and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety or depression. We would love to talk to you and see how we can help you reach and maintain your recovery.

Contact us today.

7 Valuable Do's And Don'ts After Discovering Your Partner's Sex Addiction

When you find out about your partner's sex addiction, the dominant emotion you may feel is shock. Of course, you're also likely to experience confusion, sadness, fear, anger, and betrayal. Likewise, you may get stuck in a state of denial. In an instant, it may seem like your world flipped upside-down. Like many, you may be struggling to comprehend or accept the reality of your partner's sex addiction.

There are many ways to respond to your partner; some may be helpful, and some not so much. Ideally, the goal is to get through to your partner in an effective way. Likewise, you deserve to know you are not to blame for their choices. Sex addiction comes with a unique set of challenges that can be difficult to overcome.

Let's highlight 7 valuable do's and don'ts that you may find helpful after discovering your partner has a sex addiction.

What is Sex Addiction?

According to Webmd.com, sex addiction is the lack of control over sexual urges, thoughts, and impulses. Sex addiction also refers to excessive sexual behaviors that are negatively impacting a person's life. The problem, however, is that defining excessive can be subjective. At the same time, culture or societal norms may dictate acceptable behaviors. Therefore, there remains controversy surrounding the definition or diagnosis of sex addiction.

Another indicator of sex addiction is when the compulsion to respond to an impulse outweighs any risk or consequence. Often, a person with this addiction will try to stop but realize they cannot. Likewise, over time behaviors may become more frequent, intense, or risky as the body naturally builds up a tolerance to the stimulus.

7 Powerful Do's and Don'ts if Your Partner has a Sex Addiction

  1. Do set boundaries and hold them. A relationship with a partner who has a sex addiction comes with unique challenges. Therefore, it will be vital to determine boundaries and consequences, such as requiring your partner to attend therapy.
  2. Do follow through with consequences. When it comes to addiction, sometimes hitting rock bottom leads to recovery. Following through with consequences may serve as motivation to reach and maintain sobriety.
  3. Do seek support for yourself. Having a partner who has a sex addiction can feel lonely and isolating. Likewise, a solid support system may help you manage the emotional distress you're facing.
  4. Consider therapy. Seeing a professional sex therapist who works with addiction may be the best gift you can give yourself. Likewise, they can provide helpful tools, insight, and best practices to help you through this journey.
  5. Do consider getting tested for STDs. In addition to taking care of your mental health, your physical health is also crucial. Getting a screening is vital so that you know what you may be dealing with.
  6. Don't believe that sex will fix the problem. Offering more frequent or certain types of sex will not cure your partner's addiction. Likewise, remember neither you nor your actions are to blame for your partner's choices.
  7. Don't get caught in the spiral of "what if." The reality of addiction is it's not about you. Your partner makes choices based on satisfying their addiction. As a result, they'll engage in behaviors regardless of anything you may or may not do. Partners of sex addicts can easily fall into the vicious cycle of asking "What if" questions. So, try to avoid the trap of questions such as:

    • What if I would have
    • If only I looked
    • What if I'm more
    • What if I spent less time

Where can I find help for my partner's sex addiction?

At Paradise Creek Recovery Center, we specialize in sex addiction treatment. Likewise, we aim to include partners on the journey to recovery. You deserve help and support as you face the difficult journey that lies ahead.

Contact us today to learn more about the treatment plans we offer.

The Spooky Myths of Sexual Addiction You Should Know About

Halloween will be here quickly, so it seems fitting to talk about some of the spooky myths of sexual addiction. For example, one of the myths we'll tackle is that women do not face sex addiction. While it's predominantly a male issue, women can definitely develop a sexual addiction.

Another myth we'll discuss is that sexual addiction is just a term people use to describe those who crave sex. Although it's not in the DSM, research seems to be gaining momentum. Studies indicate sexual addiction activates the reward system in the brain the same way many other addictions do. Thus, showing the process is similar to that of other addictions. Likewise, we know the effects of sex addiction can be as devastating as other addictions.

Let's talk a little bit more about some of the myths of sexual addiction.

Scary Myths of Sexual Addiction

One myth is that sexual addiction is simply a way for people to say they love and crave sex. However, this isn't true. Sexual addiction often forms, like other addictions, around emotions. It can creep into your life and take control long before you realize it's happening.

Often, addiction stems from an emotional imbalance and a desire to satisfy it. Examples can include boredom, depression, anxiety, stress, fear, or feelings of inadequacy or lack of love or acceptance. Regarding sexual addiction, the need is fulfilled by a sexual act of some sort. Then, when the need arises again, it's easy for the brain to crave the same sexual behavior to fulfill it. Over time, these behaviors become more compulsive as the addiction takes form.

Now that we know women develop sexual addictions, let's address a few more of these myths regarding women. First is the myth that sex addiction is all about being sexually intimate. In reality, the issues revolve around emotions. For men and women alike, it's common for the addiction to start to form by viewing pornography. It can lead to infidelity and then to riskier behaviors to fulfill compulsive needs.

Common reasons women develop sex addiction include a desperate need for love, affection, and acceptance. For many, being sought after or wanted for sexual behaviors can drown out feelings of abandonment. Hence, risky sexual compulsions meet and fulfill emotional needs.

For more information regarding women and sex addiction, you can read our blog post here.

Another myth is that sex addiction, and porn addiction are the same thing. Although they have many similarities, the specific addictive behaviors are what make them different.

Where Can I Get Help for My Sexual Addiction?

If you are living with sexual addiction, the scariest thing may be your reality that you can't stop. However, if you're ready to get help, there are options available.

At Paradise Creek Recovery Center, we work with clients who live with sex and porn addictions every day. We would love to work with you and help you recover for life. Call us today.

7 Powerful Things You Can Try to Help You Battle Depression and Anxiety

It's everywhere you turn; from tv to social media, our minds are being flooded with negativity, distress, and turmoil. Maybe you feel a sense of anger or frustration with friends or family who have a different point of view. On the contrary, you may feel helpless as you see all the sorrow taking place around the world. As a result, you may be experiencing feelings of depression and anxiety.

Topics such as COVID-19, Afghanistan, natural disasters, and politics can instantly lead to physical and emotional reactions. As a result, you may find yourself anxiously waiting for what might happen next. Symptoms of depression and anxiety may be setting in, although you may not realize it. For example, they can leave you feeling trapped in a sort of an indescribable funk. If you can't seem to escape the heartache, grief, and turmoil, what can you do? As depression or anxiety begin to take over, how can you reclaim a sense of security, hope, or peace?

Let's talk about depression and anxiety. We'll highlight 7 things you can begin to do today that may help you combat the storms of life.

Understanding Depression and Anxiety

Life changes can cause distress under the best of circumstances. However, when it seems to be one thing after another, you may begin to feel the weight of the world resting on your shoulders. Over time, your day-to-day responsibilities may feel harder and harder to accomplish. Why? What you see and the way you process it all can impact how you get by day after day.

The negativity and heartache you're experiencing may begin to impact your physical and mental health. Depression and anxiety are real. Regardless of whether you're genetically predisposed to them or not, you can develop symptoms.

Depression and anxiety are among the most common mental health issues. However, that doesn't mean they're easy to live with. Both can disrupt your everyday life. Although the two are different, depression can lead to anxiety and vice versa. The good news is, both depression and anxiety are treatable.

Depression, by way of definition, is a constant feeling of sadness or hopelessness that lasts more than two weeks.

Symptoms of depression include:

Anxiety disorder is excessive worry regarding even ordinary situations. Likewise, the anxiety spills over into many areas of life. For example, you're not just worried about work. You're also overly concerned about finances, family life, your health, and so forth. Symptoms for a diagnosis of anxiety are ongoing and usually last at least six months. (aafp.org)

Symptoms of anxiety can include:

7 Things You Can Start Today To Help With Depression and Anxiety:

  1. Take time to feel and acknowledge your feelings.
  2. Share your feelings with a trusted friend or write in your journal. End your entry with a gratitude list. Shifting your focus to what you're grateful for can help brighten your thoughts.
  3. Watch movies or read books that exude kindness, empathy, and hope to help shift your mindset.
  4. Go for a walk outside, take a bath, or go for a drive. Put your phone away and turn on uplifting music.
  5. Meditate for at least five minutes every day. Deep breathing and clearing your mind for even a few minutes can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
  6. Practice positive affirmations every day.
  7. Self-care. Sometimes pushing yourself to get out of bed and ready for the day can change your mood. Likewise, making good food choices and exercising may also help reduce symptoms.

Depression and anxiety are hard to escape from when they take over. This can lead to bigger issues. At Paradise Creek Recovery Center, we treat a variety of conditions. We understand the role depression and anxiety can play in addiction. As such, we aim to provide you with a "home station" as you make your journey to a healthier you. Call us today or visit our website to learn more.

Discovering the Painful Relationship Between Infidelity and Addiction

Infidelity is when one breaks a commitment of trust with their partner. When it happens in the movies, we see people move through the process of the betrayal within an hour and a half's time. Yet, in reality, one may never heal. What drives a partner to a place where they'll break trust? What role, if any, does addiction play in infidelity?

An article by Psychology Today says that statistics regarding infidelity may be shocking. In fact, they say 57% of men and 54% of women admit to infidelity. A multitude of variables can contribute to what leads another to cheat or break their commitment. Among the list, research indicates addiction is a common denominator to adultery and vice versa.

Let's discuss the unhealthy relationship between addiction and infidelity.

What are Examples of Infidelity?

By definition, infidelity is the act of being unfaithful to a partner with whom there is a level of commitment and trust. Likewise, it can include both sexual and emotional encounters. However, what one couple defines as inappropriate behavior can differ significantly from another. As such, it's important to discuss and determine what cheating or infidelity may look like within your relationship.

The behaviors that can lead to a betrayal of trust can also vary. For example, many would consider the following actions as cheating:

There are many more circumstances that can lead to feelings of betrayal or rejection within a relationship. As such, it's a good idea to sit down with your partner and communicate your expectations to one another.

The Ugly Relationship Between Infidelity and Addiction

Lies and secrecy can quickly spiral out of control. Addiction seems to accelerate these behaviors. For example, porn and sex addictions can lead to infidelity. The problem with addiction is your brain builds up a tolerance to behaviors that lead to a release of endorphins. As a result, actions tend to become riskier in order to satisfy a craving. Over time, those actions could very well lead you to infidelity.

Addiction is when you're trapped in a cycle of behaviors you can't seem to escape, even if you want to. When triggers come, it may seem as though nothing else matters. As a result, you may find yourself engaging in sexual relations outside of your relationship and wonder how you've ended up in such a place. Although the road to healing and recovery is challenging, there is a way to turn your life around.

Ultimately, whether the betrayal is a deal-breaker or not will be something you and your partner decide. Keep in mind; there are many therapists who specialize in treatment for porn and sex addiction. Many also work with couples to help them through the painful process of healing after infidelity.

At Paradise Creek Recovery Center, we know the heartache and turmoil infidelity and addiction have on relationships. We're here to help you through the process of healing and recovery. Please, call us today.