Sex. It’s everywhere—advertising, social media, TV shows, movies, and, of course, the internet. For Christian men, navigating our sexual integrity in this culture is not just a challenge—it’s often a battle. But how do you know when it crosses a line? When does “being visual” or “just having a high libido” turn into something more serious? At some point, many men find themselves asking: “Am I a sex addict?” If that question makes you uncomfortable, you’re not alone. Many men wrestle with sexual struggles in silence, guilt, and shame. But the truth is, freedom starts with honesty. Common Excuses That Hide a Deeper Issue One of the first signs of sexual addiction isn’t just the behavior—it’s the excuses we use to justify it. Here are a few we hear often in counseling: “I just have a higher libido than most guys.” While libido varies from person to person, using this as a reason to watch porn daily, visit strip clubs, or engage in risky sexual behavior may be masking a deeper issue. “At least I’m not cheating. You should see what other guys are doing.” If you're constantly escaping into porn, chat rooms, or emotional affairs, you're still stepping outside the bounds of faithfulness—even if there’s no physical infidelity. “I can stop anytime I want.” But you haven’t. And when you try, the withdrawal, irritability, or relapse cycle keeps pulling you back in. “It’s not hurting anyone.” Sexual addiction often leads to broken trust, isolation, spiritual numbness, and even damage to marriages and families. Excuses don’t lead to healing. But truth does. Is It Addiction or Just a Struggle? Sexual addiction isn’t just about frequency—it’s about compulsivity. When sexual behaviors start to control you, interfere with your relationships, impact your spiritual life, or go against your values, it may be more than just a "struggle." Here are a few questions to consider: Do I feel powerless to stop my sexual behaviors, even when I want to? Have I tried to quit before but found myself going back? Do I keep secrets from my spouse, friends, or church community? Have my sexual habits escalated over time (more graphic content, riskier behavior)? Do I use sex or porn to cope with stress, boredom, or emotional pain? If you answered yes to several of these, it’s time to take a deeper look. Take the Sexual Addiction Screening Test (SAST) Developed by Dr. Patrick Carnes, a pioneer in the field of sexual addiction recovery, the Sexual Addiction Screening Test (SAST) is a confidential, validated tool used by professionals around the world. It helps you evaluate whether your behaviors align with patterns of sexual addiction. You can take the test online here: https://psychology-tools.com/test/sast It only takes a few minutes, and it could be the first real step toward healing. There Is Hope. You’re Not Alone. Sexual addiction thrives in secrecy. But healing begins in community. At Lighthouse Counseling, we provide confidential, grace-filled counseling for men struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors. Whether you're dealing with porn addiction, infidelity, or other sexual strongholds, we’re here to walk with you. We also encourage finding a support group , such as: ● Pure Desire (puredesire.org) ● Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) ● Celebrate Recovery These communities offer encouragement, accountability, and the powerful reminder that you are not the only one fighting this battle—and you don’t have to fight it alone. Next Steps If you’re wondering whether your struggle with sex has become an addiction, don’t ignore that inner nudge. Take the SAST. Pray. Reach out. There is no shame in needing help. But there is freedom in seeking it. Let us walk with you toward healing, redemption, and restored integrity. Contact us today to schedule a confidential session. You are not your addiction. You are a beloved son of God, called to live in truth and freedom. Need help now? Schedule a confidential session with a Christian counselor who understands sexual addiction.

At Lighthouse Counseling LTD in Minnesota, we believe in the transformative power of routines to enhance mental health, boost confidence, and foster personal growth. Incorporating healthy routines into your daily life can create structure, reduce stress, and promote a sense of control. Let’s explore why routines matter and how they can positively impact your emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being. Why Routines Matter for Mental Health Routines are often overlooked, yet they are a powerful tool for improving mental health and personal development. A simple habit, like making your bed each morning, may seem insignificant, but it sets the tone for a productive day. As one of the first tasks you complete, it provides a small sense of accomplishment that can spark a cycle of positive behaviors. This small act can boost confidence, enhance your mindset, and create momentum for tackling larger goals. Research shows that routines provide structure and predictability, which are essential for reducing stress and anxiety. When life feels chaotic, a consistent routine—whether it’s making your bed, practicing mindfulness, or planning your day—offers a sense of control. At Lighthouse Counseling LTD, our Minnesota-based therapists help clients build personalized routines to support mental wellness and emotional balance. The Impact of Healthy vs. Unhealthy Routines Not all routines are created equal. Healthy routines, such as preparing for the next day, engaging in self-care, or spending quality time with loved ones, can be transformative. These habits promote relaxation, productivity, and meaningful connections. Conversely, unhealthy routines—like excessive social media scrolling, procrastination, or neglecting self-care—can hinder personal growth and mental health. For example, an evening routine centered on self-care, such as journaling or reading, can prepare you for restful sleep and a productive tomorrow. On the other hand, spending hours on social media may increase stress and disrupt your mental clarity. By identifying and replacing unhelpful habits with intentional routines, you can create a positive ripple effect in your life. How Routines Enhance Mental Health and Confidence Routines are a cornerstone of mental health because they: Reduce Stress: Consistent habits eliminate the need for constant decision-making, freeing up mental energy and reducing overwhelm. Boost Confidence: Completing small tasks, like making your bed or exercising, builds a sense of accomplishment that carries into other areas of life. Create Predictability: A structured routine fosters stability, which is especially grounding during challenging times. Promote Focus: Routines help you prioritize goals, whether they’re related to self-care, work, or relationships. At Lighthouse Counseling LTD, our Minnesota counselors work with clients to develop routines tailored to their unique needs, helping them achieve emotional and psychological balance. Building Routines Around Key Areas of Life Routines can be applied to various aspects of life, including: Self-Care: Incorporate activities like exercise, meditation, or skincare to prioritize your well-being. Household Tasks: Simple habits like meal planning or tidying up can create a sense of order and accomplishment. Relationships: Schedule time for meaningful connections with family or friends to strengthen bonds. Spiritual Practices: Daily prayer, gratitude, or reflection can nurture your spiritual growth. For instance, a morning routine that includes prayer, a short walk, and planning your day can set a positive tone. Similarly, an evening routine of journaling and relaxation can help you unwind and prepare for restful sleep. The Spiritual Power of Routines For those who draw inspiration from faith, the Bible offers timeless wisdom about the value of routines. Consider these verses: Matthew 6:6 encourages daily prayer and devotion, reminding us that consistent spiritual practices bring us closer to God. Proverbs 12:11 highlights how routine work and integrity lead to abundance and fulfillment. Exodus 20:8-10 emphasizes the importance of rest to achieve balance and honor the Sabbath. Philippians 2:4 inspires us to serve others, fostering kindness and connection through intentional habits. Psalm 118:24 reminds us to approach each day with gratitude, cultivating a positive outlook. By incorporating these principles into your routines, you can nurture both your mental health and spiritual well-being. Start Small, Transform Big The beauty of routines lies in their simplicity. You don’t need to overhaul your life to see results. Start with small, achievable habits—like making your bed, practicing gratitude, or taking a 10-minute walk. These small actions can lead to significant emotional, psychological, physical, and relational benefits. At Lighthouse Counseling LTD in Minnesota, we’re here to support you in creating meaningful routines that align with your goals. Our experienced therapists offer personalized counseling to help you reduce stress, build confidence, and foster personal growth through intentional habits. Take the First Step Toward Positive Change Ready to harness the power of routines to improve your mental health and well-being? Contact Lighthouse Counseling LTD today to schedule a session with one of our compassionate Minnesota therapists. Let us help you create routines that transform your life—one small step at a time.