Many of the men I meet ask the predictable question, “How do I know if I really have an addiction?” Let me suggest four criteria for any addiction.
- A need for more of the behavior to achieve the desired effect.
- Feelings of withdrawal when unable to engage in the addictive behavior.
- Repeated unsuccessful attempts to end the behavior.
- Continued acting out despite negative impacts.
If three or all four of the criteria above describe you, you probably have an addiction. If you aren’t sure, call us. Or better yet, make an appointment to see a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist.
Max Dupree is right. “The first thing each of us must do is define reality as it is.” The Bible says it like this: “Examine yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5).
Recovery Step: Take the simple test above. And if at least three of the criteria describe you, it’s time to get help.
Author: Mark Denison
Mark and Beth Denison, married for 36 years, launched There’s Still Hope as a national movement to call men and women into lives of sexual integrity. Their ministry offers 90-day recovery plans for addicts and one-on-one and group coaching for addicts and their spouses. TSH also produces resources for pastors and churches to confront the porn epidemic that is destroying so many lives.
Dr. Denison was a senior pastor for over 30 years, NBA chaplain, and board chairman at Houston Baptist University three times. With a Master’s Degree in Addiction Recovery, Mark is a certified PSAP and active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Mark has written four books on recovery: Porn in the Pew, 365 Days to Sexual Integrity, A 90-Day Recovery Guide, and 40 Days to Porn-Free Living. His latest book, Jesus on the 12 Steps, will be released later this year.
