If They Need Love Addiction Therapy Atlanta Residents Will Discover High-Quality Assistance Is Available To Them

By Marci Glover


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.

This surprisingly common condition is characterized by compulsive behavior patterns with regard to romance and sexuality. These behaviors are driven by deep-seated hopes and fears that cause the sufferer profound stress, turmoil and unhappiness. Sufferers tend to have poor self-esteem and fear pain, rejection and unfamiliar experiences. Their compulsive romantic and/or sexual relationship patterns are an unconscious attempt to bolster a fragile sense of self and to assuage deep insecurity.

As with most disorders of this nature, it often has its origins in the sufferer's childhood experiences. Traumatic events such as loss, rejection, neglect and abandonment, not to mention physical, emotional and sexual abuse, can have a devastating effect on a child's emotional and psychological development. Experiences of this nature can result in a damaged identity and seriously impaired self-confidence that sufferers seek to compensate for.

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.

Treating these damaging patterns of behavior takes time and commitment. Fortunately, there are experts in this field who can help sufferers examine their self-defeating behaviors and move into better, more life-enhancing ones. Individual counseling, twelve-step programs and cognitive behavioral therapy are all proven methods that enable patients to begin the process of positive change.

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.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment