In the quiet hours of the night, when my family lay sleeping, I found myself trapped in a cycle of secrecy and shame. My journey into the shadows was not one I had planned, nor was it one I was proud of. Patrick Carnes, a pioneer in the field of addiction recovery, once said, "Addiction is a relationship, a pathological relationship in which obsession replaces people." This quote resonated with me deeply, reflecting the isolating nature of my pornography addiction.
Secrecy at Home
The lengths to which I went to hide my addiction were destructive. I was careful to erase my browsing history every time. My phone and computer had passwords, keeping my secret life compartmentalized from my family. Late nights under the guise of work or early mornings masked as fitness routines became my opportune moments to indulge, always ensuring I was alone. I often lied to my wife about the things I was doing, looking for times to be alone so I could indulge in the habit.
Signs of a Deeper Problem
Despite my best efforts to hide my addiction, the signs were there. My increasing irritability, loss of interest in activities I once enjoyed, and the growing distance between my loved ones and myself were glaring indications. My sleep patterns were erratic, and my work performance suffered. The realization hit me when my behaviors started affecting those I loved most; I knew I had a problem.
The Path to Acknowledgment
Acknowledging my addiction was the first step toward recovery. Understanding the psychological underpinnings of my actions, I turned to the SABR program at Family Strategies Counseling Center. This comprehensive approach, emphasizing education, application, and integration of recovery strategies, offered a new perspective on overcoming my addiction.
Hope and Recovery
Recovery from pornography addiction is not a journey I walk alone. With the support of my family, therapists, and the recovery community, I have taken steps toward healing. The road is long and fraught with challenges, but there is hope. Through therapeutic intervention and the application of the SABR program's principles, I have begun to rebuild my life, focusing on healthy relationships and accountability.
Family Strategies Counseling Center has actively serviced clients since 2000 who struggle with pornography and sexual addiction issues. Our SABR program for adults, Tribe for college, and Band of Brothers for teens can help you! Give us a call (800) 614-8142 or visit our website for more information: www.FamilyStrategies.org.
