Some may regard the notion of love addiction as trivial, but it is in fact a serious condition that ruins many lives. While it may not cause the same kind of visible damage as, say, alcoholism, it undoubtedly causes genuine damage to the life of each sufferer and to those close to them. Should they be in need of love addiction therapy Atlanta GA residents will be relieved to know that expert help is available.
Many people are surprised at how common this condition is. It permeates all levels of society and is characterized by dysfunctional patterns of behavior pertaining to sexual and romantic relationships. These behavior patterns are rooted in dysfunctional emotional responses that are a source of huge stress and misery for sufferers. Their low levels of self-esteem lead to an inordinate amount of fear towards rejection, pain and the unknown. Compulsive sexual/romantic relationships are an unconscious way in which sufferers attempt to gain safety and approval.
This condition, like most dysfunctional behavioral patterns, has its roots in childhood experiences. Early trauma like neglect, rejection, abandonment and emotional, physical and sexual abuse are the most prominent factors contributing to its formation. These kind of experiences lead to a serious loss of self-confidence for the victim and a damaged identity.
This damaged sense of self causes sufferers immense difficulties when it comes to forming healthy relationships with other people. They tend to have trouble establishing boundaries, and can be excessively needy and dependent. Some sufferers can be manipulative, jealous, controlling and possessive, even to the point of violence.
Those suffering with this condition will typically display a number of relationship pathologies. These can include, but are by no means limited to, an inability to stay single, a pronounced uneasiness about being single, remaining in destructive relationships, repeating destructive relationship patterns, undermining their reputation (by pursuing an unsuitable romantic partner) and neglecting/undermining their finances.
A big side-effect of these pathologies is the impact they have on other important areas of the sufferer's life. Areas like work and family life can deteriorate badly when the sufferer's time and energy is wasted elsewhere. Failures in time-keeping and productivity can lead to job loss and consequent financial difficulties. Neglected family relationships can lead to conflict and estrangement.
The good news is, the root causes of these behavior patterns can certainly be overcome with the right help. There are proven therapies that facilitate the development of healthy, positive behaviors and vastly improved ways of living. One-on-one counseling, support groups and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), are all excellent ways in which patients can move beyond negative patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving.
Regardless of the kind of treatment patients engage in, they will generally be asked to refrain from sexual/romantic encounters for at least a short period of time. It is important for them to take some time out and gain a fresh perspective on their problems. If necessary, it also provides them with an opportunity to deal with substance abuse (a common related issue). In time, and with expert support, patients can learn how to form healthy relationships that are based on genuine love and respect for other people.
Many people are surprised at how common this condition is. It permeates all levels of society and is characterized by dysfunctional patterns of behavior pertaining to sexual and romantic relationships. These behavior patterns are rooted in dysfunctional emotional responses that are a source of huge stress and misery for sufferers. Their low levels of self-esteem lead to an inordinate amount of fear towards rejection, pain and the unknown. Compulsive sexual/romantic relationships are an unconscious way in which sufferers attempt to gain safety and approval.
This condition, like most dysfunctional behavioral patterns, has its roots in childhood experiences. Early trauma like neglect, rejection, abandonment and emotional, physical and sexual abuse are the most prominent factors contributing to its formation. These kind of experiences lead to a serious loss of self-confidence for the victim and a damaged identity.
This damaged sense of self causes sufferers immense difficulties when it comes to forming healthy relationships with other people. They tend to have trouble establishing boundaries, and can be excessively needy and dependent. Some sufferers can be manipulative, jealous, controlling and possessive, even to the point of violence.
Those suffering with this condition will typically display a number of relationship pathologies. These can include, but are by no means limited to, an inability to stay single, a pronounced uneasiness about being single, remaining in destructive relationships, repeating destructive relationship patterns, undermining their reputation (by pursuing an unsuitable romantic partner) and neglecting/undermining their finances.
A big side-effect of these pathologies is the impact they have on other important areas of the sufferer's life. Areas like work and family life can deteriorate badly when the sufferer's time and energy is wasted elsewhere. Failures in time-keeping and productivity can lead to job loss and consequent financial difficulties. Neglected family relationships can lead to conflict and estrangement.
The good news is, the root causes of these behavior patterns can certainly be overcome with the right help. There are proven therapies that facilitate the development of healthy, positive behaviors and vastly improved ways of living. One-on-one counseling, support groups and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), are all excellent ways in which patients can move beyond negative patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving.
Regardless of the kind of treatment patients engage in, they will generally be asked to refrain from sexual/romantic encounters for at least a short period of time. It is important for them to take some time out and gain a fresh perspective on their problems. If necessary, it also provides them with an opportunity to deal with substance abuse (a common related issue). In time, and with expert support, patients can learn how to form healthy relationships that are based on genuine love and respect for other people.
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