ANSWER by Bro. Ignatius Mary, OLSM on May 19, 2004

Dear Sal: Yes, you need to go to Confession if you have fallen into the sin again since last Confession. I would also advise two things, in addition to the normal elements of advice of staying away from the near occasion of sin, frequent reception of the Sacraments, and such" 1) Temptation normally comes in rather small "windows of opportunity". If we can distract ourselves for a few minutes to allow that "window" to pass, we can be much more successful in resisting the temptation. For example, when feeling the temptation, get up and do the dishes, mow the lawn, watch the T.V. news, anything that takes you away from that temptation. 2) Habitual indulgence in masturbation is often more than just a habit; it is usually a form of compulsive-obsessiveness. I would advise talking to one's doctor about this. Taking a drug like Zoloff will correct the chemical imbalance in the brain that tends to cause compulsive-obsessive behavior. I know many people who have successfully overcome their habit by use of drugs like Zoloff. We will be praying for you, Bro. Ignatius Mary P.S. we have a support group for people who have addictions to sexual sins. It is not open at the moment, but plan on re-opening it this summer. This support group, in conjunction with the Sacrament of Confession and the Eucharist, Eucharistic adoration, prayer and devotion, avoiding the near occasion has been very successful.