Do you often masturbate and think about masturbating when you’re not? If you answered “yes”, you could be added to masturbation. To help understand where the addiction to masturbation starts and how one can overcome the addiction to masturbation, Dr. I used Karen Apsel as a therapist.
Tell me a little about yourself.
I received an undergraduate degree from Duke University. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Virginia. Today I work at Dupont Circle in Washington DC, where I work with individuals and teams. In addition to working with people with addictions/compulsions (especially sexual ones including masturbation and internet pornography) and their spouses, he also works with clients with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, recovery from childhood trauma, and a whole host of non-addiction issues.
Where does the addiction to masturbation come from?
“Addictive or compulsive masturbation is in many ways similar to other addictions or compulsions. It is a way to escape uncomfortable emotions and can become so habitual that it takes over one’s life. Sometimes people are conscious of their emotions. They try to be astounded; sometimes they are so good at compartmentalizing their mind that they don’t even they note what they feel before they start the avoidance process or any other addictive/compulsive act is different for each person.
What kind of impact can masturbation have on someone’s overall life?
Clients who masturbate compulsively or addictively describe an inward turning into themselves, disconnecting from the people and world around them. . Thus, friendships and romantic relationships are usually less intimate or less connected. A completely healthy sex drive. Generally, people who masturbate out of necessity are less interested in interpersonal sex. The sexual release itself is also reduced when one does it often, so the “high” is less good.
What are some tips to help someone overcome their masturbation?
“I work with my clients on both sides of the addiction: the human way and the psychological. Part of the way is the habit itself, and people need to find ways to change their lifestyle in any way necessary to break the habit. The longer they avoid doing this, the less compelled It will have to pull together. The remaining psychological part is how to avoid the emotions, and develop healthy ways of dealing with those emotions . and avoidance behavior. Although masturbation is a healthy part of the lives of all adults, a compulsive masturbator may avoid all masturbation altogether, at least for a period of time, until healthier coping strategies are established.
What type of professional help is available for someone who is addicted to masturbation?
“Obviously, I’m proposing individual and sometimes group psychotherapy, preferably with someone experienced in working with these types of addictions. There are also some 12-step meetings that some people find helpful – Sexaddiction Anonymous (SA) or Sex-Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA).”
Thank you Dr. Apsel that you would do an interview about overcoming masturbation addiction. For more information on Dr. You can check out Apsel or his work on his website at www.karenapsel.com
Recommended Readings:
How to Cope With Your Cyber Spouse’s Sex Addiction
How to Overcome Internet Sex Addiction
Are you into Voyeurism?
