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Substance Use and Sexuality

Does “one more” often turn into “more than you intended?”

Do you find having sex to be difficult or “impossible” without being under the influence?
​

Do your loved ones protest against your drinking or use?

Do you find that your behavior is drastically different “under the influence” than “sober?”
​

Is using alcohol or drugs to have sex “normal?”

Addictions and substance use disorders can be difficult to detect, especially in times and contexts when drinking and use are encouraged. The following are some criteria used in the DSM-V to differentiate between casual and problematic use:
  • Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than you're meant to.
  • Wanting to cut down or stop using the substance but not managing to.
  • Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from use of the substance.
  • Cravings and urges to use the substance.
  • Not managing to do what you should at work, home, or school because of substance use.
  • Continuing to use, even when it causes problems in relationships.
  • Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of substance use.
  • Using substances again and again, even when it puts you in danger.
  • Continuing to use, even when you know you have a physical or psychological problem that could have been caused or made worse by the substance.
  • Needing more of the substance to get the effect you want (tolerance).
  • Development of withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by taking more of the substance.​
Empty wine glasses with underwear on the floor. Adults dealing with alcohol addiction, substance abuse and impacts on sexuality or sex can get treatment through sex therapy in Minnesota at Sexual Wellness Institute

Interplay Between Sex and Substances

Being sexual and using substances both have significant payoffs and it’s understandable that many people are drawn to both behaviors, often simultaneously. The following is a partial list of some possible consequences related to substance abuse and sex:
  • Violation of personal sexual boundaries (that might be less likely to occur sober)
  • Having sex without being fully present to the experience/sensations, including failure to recall past sexual experiences
  • Unwanted transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
  • Unplanned pregnancy
  • Possible financial consequences associated with decisions around substances and/or sexual practices
  • Difficulty with sexual functioning (e.g. erections, ejaculation, lubrication, orgasm, etc.)

What to Do If You Think You Might Have a Problem

Picture of three people holding a flask, a cup, and a liquor bottle. Substance abuse and sexuality can be difficult to discuss. A skilled sex therapist in Plymouth, MN can help you with online therapy in Minnesota.
  1. Take stock of the situation. Cultivate an awareness of your use. How much are you using? Is your use consistent or more context-dependent? You can’t change what you don’t know.
  2. Set SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, time-bound) goals. Set yourself up for success by envisioning the change you wish to see. When you have a target, it can be easier to start taking the steps necessary to modify your behavior. You may also gain insight into the behavioral change process and reasons underlying your use.
  3. Increase accountability. Change is hard enough, there’s little sense in doing it alone. Find a trusted mental healthcare provider and recovery support groups (peers and mentors) to facilitate your recovery journey. 
It may not seem like much, but you might be surprised by how something small like an adjustment to your drinking or use can have positive ripple effects in your life. Many clients have noted marked improvements in their work/life balance, relationships, and sex lives to name a few. Part of this transformation involves identifying core reasons for “acting out” with substances e.g., escapism, loneliness, trauma, depression/anxiety, etc. If connection is the antidote to problematic use, it follows that managing or even eliminating use can lead to radical differences (for the better) in relating and sexual fulfillment. In therapy, you can realize empowerment by altering your dependence on substances. 

Therapy Goals Individualized to You

Not everyone has to give up everything! You may find that your life improves drastically with some boundaries around your drinking or use without resorting to full abstinence. Sometimes it’s simply a matter of determining what those boundaries are (and adhering to them) and working with a professional to support you. One of the most important elements to recovery is an open mind! 

Meet James Chadwick, a Minnesota sex therapist with training and specialization in the intersection of substance abuse disorders and sexuality.

Plymouth, MN sex therapist James Chadwick can help with therapy exploring the intersection of substance abuse and sexuality with online therapy in Minnesota at Sexual Wellness Institute
“Drugs, and especially alcohol, are an indelible part of our culture, and addictions involving them are increasingly common. It may be that you are looking to change your relationship with drugs and alcohol, or terminate it altogether. The intersection between sex, relationships, gender identity, sexual orientation, and use can be complex, multi-faceted, and difficult to sort out. Whatever your goals and boundaries around your use, I look forward to supporting you in your journey!”
~James Chadwick, MSW LICSW


Related Blog Posts

  • Penis, Out of Order
  • Exploring Sexual Values
  • Taboo Topics for Couples: Let's Talk About Sex

Begin Therapy for Substance Abuse and Sexuality in Minnesota

Beginning therapy in Minnesota with one of our skilled sex therapists can be simple and worry-free. We can help you either in-person at our Plymouth, MN counseling clinic, or anywhere in the state with online therapy in Minnesota! Explore your personal relationship with substances and sex here. All you have to do to get started is:
  1. Schedule a free consultation
  2. Meet with one of our sex therapists online or at our clinic
  3. Feel more in control of your sexuality, finally.

Other Sexual Wellness Institute Services

​Sexual concerns often have many layers. We know these issues are complex so, at Sexual Wellness Institute, we also offer sexual desire therapy, sex and porn addiction, couples counseling, low libido or mismatched sexual desire, infidelity therapy and specialized services for teens. Let us enhance your sexual health in a meaningful and comprehensive way. Ask your online therapist about additional resources in your area of Minnesota. ​Check out our award-winning sex therapy blog as well!
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Sexual Wellness Institute, PLLC is a specialized sex & relationship therapy practice in Plymouth, MN. We serve clients all over Minnesota and Wisconsin and are located near Maple Grove, St. Louis Park, Wayzata, & Minnetonka.

This site is presented for information only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice. Presentation and Design ©2014-2018. SWIPLLC. All Rights Reserved.
  • Home
  • Our Therapists
  • Specialties
    • Sex Therapy >
      • Sex Addiction and Porn Addiction
      • Desire Concerns
      • Infidelity
      • Substance Use and Sexuality
    • Marriage Counseling & Couple Therapy >
      • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples
      • Gottman Method for Couples Therapy
    • EMDR/Sexual Trauma Therapy
    • Teens
  • Rates
  • Our Location
  • Resources
    • Sensate Focus Clients Only
  • Common Questions
  • Free Consultation
  • Supervision/Consultation
  • Online Therapy
  • Blog