Breaking Free: Understanding Sexual Addiction and the Healing Power of Jesus

by Russell Willingham

Our world is awash in sex. We are bombarded with it everywhere we turn--TV, newspapers and magazines, music, movies and the Internet. When this ever-present temptation mixes with human weaknesses and unmet needs, many get pulled into addiction to sexually sinful behavior. They may detest their own habits, but they can't seem to break free. Is there any hope? Russell Willingham speaks from his own experience and that of the many he has counseled. His answer? "Yes! There is hope. Jesus offers forgiveness and healing." True stories show how the principles in this book can be put into action. The essentials are spelled out in practical steps that can help people begin to break free. Willingham deals with such issues as This realistic yet hopeful book offers a new way to see the world for every person who wants to understand and break free from sexual addiction.

Genres: Christian, Counselling, Addiction, Sexuality, Psychology, Self Help

213 pages, Paperback

First published January 13, 1999

Reviews

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is probably the best book I've read about sexual addiction. I would almost give it 5 stars if not for the (slight) false advertisement. It presents itself as being for everyone, but the book is written almost exclusively for men struggling with heterosexual addictions. He briefly mentions homosexual addiction and how wives of men struggling with sexual addiction can recover, but does not address women struggling with sexual addictions nor does he go into depth about homosexual addiction. I still highly recommend it for male heterosexual addictions and the loved ones of those struggling with it, as well as for those counseling men struggling with these addictions. In many ways it is an overview of a basic CBT approach to therapy for male heterosexual addiction.

[Jeni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This is a fantastic testimony from one who's been there, as well as a how-to for those still caught in addiction. I found not just information but also compassion, hope, and a sense of how far the Father's love will go to save us. If you or someone you know is caught up in porn, adultery, promiscuity, or other sexual issues, this is a great book for you to read, before passing it along to them. I recommend it very highly for wives, pastors, counselors and accountability partners who are working with men with these issues.

[Justin Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Timeless wisdom that manages to still hit the core of an ever-expanding conversation around sexual brokenness. I appreciated following all of the different anecdotes of Willingham's clients and personal journey toward sexual healing. The ending that emphasized the holistic healing of the sexual addict and the importance of friendships, Christ-centered being and (if married) wife-centered serving was especially encouraging and insightful.

[Brian Townsend · Rating 5 out of 5]

if you read one book about addictions (of any kind)- this might be it. Well-balanced. Not shame based. Very helpful.

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book. Russell presents examining the need beyond the behavior. SO much on this subject dwells on behavior modification, this books takes it much further. Also works well for group study.