TRIGGER WARNING: Sex Addiction
David*, a 29 year-old married man and father, reached out to Amudim when he felt that he had hit rock bottom and was contemplating just ending it all. He was suffering with an all consuming sex addiction, watching pornography and engaging in various destructive activities, and no one knew. David was in debt and was spending money he didn’t have to feed his addiction. He had considered seeking out therapy at one point, but he couldn’t afford it. And his wife’s not knowing about his dark secret made him feel even more despairing and alone.
David found the courage to call Amudim, but he didn’t think he had any options; he believed he might be beyond help and that the life and family he had built were essentially over.
Our case manager listened to David’s story, and immediately referred him to personal as well as group therapy. Together, he and the case manager found a way to navigate his insurance options to pay for his treatment. David also finally felt able to come clean with his wife. After her initial shock, she agreed to see a therapist on her own, and the two hope to begin couples’ counseling to work on rebuilding the trust and foundation of their marriage. She did not choose to leave, as David had feared she might.
Though his journey of healing is far from over, Baruch Hashem, David has been doing amazingly well and has not succumbed to his addiction for over two months. He has regained his self-confidence, feels proud of his progress, and is optimistic about the future. We will continue to follow up with David and his wife and be there every step of the way on the journey to recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with sex addiction, you are not alone. We are here to help you, call us anytime (646) 517-0222.
*DetaNIS have been changed to protect privacy