If you’re someone who has been struggling to deal with sex addiction you will know the damage it can cause to your relationships at home and in the workplace – not to mention the damage to your physical and mental health. The good news is, just like those with drinking problems are able to gain support from Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – those with sexual behavioural problems can join Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) and take part in the SAA 12 steps.
What is a 12 Step Recovery Programme?
The program, which originated with AA, is the foundation for personal recovery from the effects of any kind of addiction, including sex addiction. Members of these programmes have found that the steps, when followed correctly, not only offer SAA recovery… but also offer a whole new approach to life.
SAA 12 steps is exactly as it sounds – 12 steps that walk you through the recovery process. These steps are usually discussed and observed in SAA meetings where participants learn how to integrate the steps into their daily lives.
Group sessions also allow you to gain feedback and support from other addicts. Why is this important? Because to truly recover from addiction you need to let go of saying “I can handle this on my own” and “I know what I’m doing” – and admit that you need the help of others.
What are the benefits of the SAA 12 steps?
There are many ways to approach sex addiction treatment. Psychologists and counsellors can provide a range of tools to help patients cope with their addiction. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a widespread evidence based practice that has proven to be effective when treating sex addiction. How does it work? By helping you understand irrational or obsessive thoughts and how they can lead to relapse behaviours. Mindfulness meditation and hypnotherapy can also be used to help.
By far the most successful-to-date form of treatment for any kind of addiction is the 12 step program. A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse found that people who are actively involved in the 12 Step programme during their recovery from addiction were 2.8 times more likely to abstain from drugs, alcohol or compulsive behaviours.
You could say it has been tried and tested and the results are clear. People who complete a 12 step SAA program are less likely to go back to unmanageable sexual behaviour.
Why is the 12 step programme so successful?
Addicts helping addicts
Addicts are paired with sponsors which allows them to gain support and advice from someone who has lived through the experience. Doctors, counsellors and therapists can only offer so much theoretical support…sometimes you want to hear from someone who has been through it themselves.
Connection
Meetings allow you to be in the same physical space as other addicts. This connection is hugely powerful and can provide emotional support at times when you are feeling lowest.
Fostering honesty
It would be hard to find a more open, honest and accepting circle of people than those going through a 12 step program together.
Tools for handling stressful situations
The 12 steps are set up so you always have something to fall back on. There’s a structure in place, and people to support you when you’re flailing. No matter what you’re going through, the program will be able to guide you through it.
Principles for life
The programme is based on key principles that have the power to transform your entire life. They include humility, forgiveness, acceptance, integrity, honesty, faith, surrender and service.
Getting help at The Dawn Rehab Thailand
It’s not easy to take the first step and admit that you need help – but if you are ready to make that move, you can rest assured that your privacy will be completely respected by our caring and professional team. Many of our staff are former addicts who have successfully stepped through the recovery process and have an in-depth understanding of what you’re going through.
The Dawn offers intensive sex addiction treatment packages that include the SAA 12 Step principles. Our Twin Pillars treatment model is a holistic and non-religious approach that caters to people from a variety of backgrounds. Our treatments are affordable and world class. We provide private accommodation in a safe and healing environment. Please contact us today to receive a confidential free assessment we will get back to you shortly.
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