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Sex Addiction: It's Not Just a Punchline in Rehab, Folks

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my time in rehab, it’s that nothing is sacred. Everything—everything—gets joked about, from the food (is this meatloaf or a science experiment?) to the very serious issues that landed us there. And yes, that includes sex addiction. If you’ve never been in a room full of recovering addicts trying to outdo each other with dark humor, let me paint a picture: it’s like a comedy club where the cover charge is trauma. But here’s the thing—while the jokes fly, the pain behind them is very real.

That brings me to this fascinating PsyPost article, which digs into how men and women experience concerns about sexual addiction differently. Spoiler alert: there are some stark contrasts, and they’re not exactly what you’d expect.

According to the article, new research reveals that men and women diverge significantly in their worries about sexual addiction. While men are more likely to focus on the frequency of their sexual urges, women are more concerned about the impact those urges have on their relationships. To quote the researchers, “Men tend to perceive their sexual urges as problematic when they are frequent and difficult to control, while women see them as problematic when they conflict with relational values or cause emotional harm.”

In other words, men are stuck in a tug-of-war with their impulses, while women are worried about the collateral damage. It’s like men are driving a car with no brakes, and women are standing in the wreckage wondering how they’re going to explain this to the neighbors.

Now, let me pivot to the self-deprecating part of this blog because, well, why not? My own sex life has been less "romantic escapades" and more "plot points in a cringe comedy." I once thought I might have a problem because I spent way too much time swiping right and not enough time actually liking the people I matched with. Was it addiction or just boredom? I’ll leave that to the experts.

What struck me most about this article, though, is how it underscores the universality of addiction. Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, or sex, the common thread is the feeling of being trapped—of something that once seemed thrilling now controlling you. And let’s be clear: sex addiction isn’t just a punchline or an excuse cooked up by celebrities caught in scandals. It’s as brutal as any other addiction, gnawing at your self-worth and leaving a trail of destruction.

The article does a good job of highlighting how societal norms might influence these differences. Men, for example, are often encouraged to see sexual conquests as badges of honor, while women face judgment for the exact same behavior. This double standard doesn’t just affect how we view others—it shapes how we view ourselves and, in turn, how we process addiction.

But here’s the kicker: the study’s authors acknowledge that our understanding of sexual addiction is still evolving. They note, “More research is needed to determine whether these differences are biological, cultural, or a combination of both.” Translation? We’re still figuring this out, but at least we’re asking the right questions.

In rehab, the jokes about sex addiction often came from a place of discomfort—because humor, for all its flaws, is a coping mechanism. But once the laughter subsides, the reality sets in. Addiction, in any form, is a thief. It steals joy, connection, and often, the ability to live in the moment.

So here’s my takeaway: whether you’re struggling with sexual addiction, substance abuse, or just trying to navigate the chaos of life, remember that you’re not alone. And if you can find humor in the madness? Even better. Just don’t let the jokes overshadow the work you need to do.

Check out the original article here: “New research sheds light on how men and women differ in concerns about sexual addiction”.

Oh, and if you’re in the mood for something that mixes humor with chaos, check out my novels—Demons Within, Cocaine Cola, The Dish Pit, and Serpents in the Sand. They’re proof that even a mind riddled with addiction and absurdity can create something worth reading. Find the links somewhere on this blog—or in my Instagram bio @millprites.

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