Human is still exploring the many aspects of sexuality which makes it all the more a complex subject. When an external factor such as drug addiction tries to intervene in this already cumbersome mix, the results are simply devastating. As per a study was done by the University of Grenada in 2013, male drug addicts despite undergoing a proper rehabilitation program suffer from impotence in 75% of the cases. Though Cocaine is known to increase the sex drive in man on a temporary basis, it can affect the sexual abilities of a person in long run. It may also be responsible for risky sexual behavior in many drug addicts.
As per the University of California, Santa Barbara, the long run use of cocaine or any other drug can bring ‘massive decline’ in the ability to perform a sexual act. Taking part in promiscuous sexual activity may become tough or may be impossible at times; this certainly is a more than welcome sign for problems and disagreements in any relationship. The many other outcomes excessive use can be sexually transmitted disease, abuse of the partner, unwanted pregnancies, depression, erectile dysfunction & end of a sweet, loving & charming relationship.
Dealing with sexual abuse to prevent toxic relationship:
Sexuality is one of the most critical parts of any relationship. As discussed earlier, the impact of drug abuse is the most prominently observed on sexuality. The equilibrium of a relationship is spoiled as the level of intimacy is affected as intimacy directly influences the trust in a relationship. This is where the problem starts with partners abusing each other both physically & mentally and the relationship leading towards a dead end.
This isn’t just philosophy but a conclusion derived from a study published in the American Journal of Orthopsychiatry. The subject of the study was 106 fathers who were undergoing the treatment methadone addiction. The study derived that men who are addicted to substances like methadone are more aggressive mentally, physically and sexually.
The current situation:
Recent times have seen a significant rise in the number of domestic violence cases registered. The U.S Department of Justice has a broad definition of ‘abusive’ behavior which includes any behavior under which one partner tries to dominate the other partner is considered as a harmful act and thus covers a wide variety of cases. In case of substance abusers, this also covers any activities conducted under the influence of drugs and without the consent of the partner. Luckily, there are enough rehabilitation therapies that are coming forth with effective solutions for people suffering from turbulent relationships.
These programs are of varied nature and take rather a behavioral approach to treatment. However, for these treatments to become successful, one has to be supportive towards the abusive partner. Love, affection & care work as a catalyst in rehabilitation procedure and very soon the addict emerges as a balanced personality.
Drug addicts can be destructive and imbalanced. With a perfect blend of medical treatment, psychological approach and partner’s support one can easily reach the threshold where a new and reformed personality is born.
