Sexuality and Addiction—Making Connections, Enhancing Recovery

Noting that sexual health is usually ignored in addiction counseling programs, James, a sexologist, researcher, consultant, and professor in addiction studies at Governors State U., explains how sexual health and substance abuse are often connected and helps drug and alcohol counselors and other health professionals working with substance users integrate sex-related issues into their treatment and the recovery process. She introduces a sexual health model and the concept of sexual self-esteem and how it can be used to measure sexual health improvements and as an assessment tool, then ways to communicate about sex. She discusses the impact of culture and sexual identity; sexual anatomy, reproductive functioning, and sexual response in relation to substance use and addition problems; safe sex and self-care; how to talk about traumatic sexual experiences; body image; fantasy and masturbation; positive sexual self-concept; how to be intimate in a relationship; and spirituality. Each chapter addresses connections to substance use and relapse, scientific evidence, and ways to enhance the recovery process. She includes examples of how to incorporate discussions, activities, tools, and issues into groups, and ideas for groups that address specific topics like gender-specific, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender issues. Annotation c2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Raven L. James, PhD, is a sexologist, researcher, consultant, and assistant professor in addiction studies at Governors State University, University Park, IL.