Build your support network – Sex and Relationship Therapy

When was the last time someone gave you peace of mind instead of what they thought?

Having a knowledgeable and compassionate support network is key to long-term recovery. But healthy friendships aren’t something sex and porn addicts typically excel at. This leaves many of us asking, “How do I know who to invite into my inner circle?” Happily, there are a few qualities that are easy to identify. A safe friend is someone who:

• Respect and maintain our and their boundaries.
• Don’t make small talk or share information they’ve been entrusted with.
• Understand that we are in a process of recovery and healing, and be willing to be a part of that process with us.
• Don’t collude with us and pretend everything is fine when it’s not.
• Don’t exacerbate our fears by telling us horror stories that cause us to imagine the worst-case scenarios.
• Have the wisdom to share and provide sound, helpful advice when we need it.
• They were available and available when we needed support.

If we can find one or two people who are able and willing to support us in these ways, we’ll have started to build a great support network.

today’s task
Make a list of people you might want to join your support network, looking for qualities that appear in the previous list.