Sex addiction is the compulsive urge to engage in sexual behaviors, without an ability to stop, regardless of the consequences. One may recognize a problem when, although there is a strong desire to stop, they are unable to do so.
Sex addiction is destructive in nature. For example, it can damage relationships, lead to job loss, financial troubles, and serious legal issues. Likewise, it can cause many mental and physical health issues.
Research shows sex addiction can change the way the brain responds. As a result, escaping the addiction can be extremely difficult. However, recovery is possible.
Why Does Sex Become Addictive?
Many ask, "Can sex really be an addiction?" It's a legitimate question. This question is addressed more thoroughly elsewhere in our site, but here are some key thoughts.
Sexual activity activates and interacts with the reward system in the brain in much the same way as alcohol and drugs. Patterns of thinking, experiencing strong emotions, and acting create neural pathways around those patterns of thinking, feeling and acting. Once those patterns are established that activity become more than a bad choice, or even a habit. It becomes an addiction.
The ways of acting out sexually vary widely. Pornography use, one night stands, affairs, and other ways of being sexual have the potential of becoming problematic in a person's life impacting family, careers, reputations, and sometimes negative legal consequences.
Here's a free assessment that can help you determine if your sexual behavior has crossed over into the realm of addiction.
Like any addiction, the first sign is the inability to stop. The brain signals compulsive urges and cravings in an effort to achieve a release of endorphins or a 'high.' As such, behaviors can become erratic and risky, simply to quiet the mind.
Another indicator of sex addiction is when sexual thoughts and behaviors begin to occupy the day. For example, one may experience thoughts and triggers multiple times a day. A simple word or image could lead to thoughts that are sexual in nature. Over time, sex is the priority, and nothing will stand in the way of satisfying a craving.
For many, sex addiction involves behaviors that oppose personal values and beliefs, but they engage anyway. Likewise, it consists of engaging in risky behaviors regardless of the negative consequences.
Next, many with sex addiction hide their behaviors. As a result, they may experience intense urges that accompany feelings such as guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, and regret.
Types of Sex Addiction
Sex addiction can include the following:
phone sex
pornography
multiple sex partners
extramarital affairs
exhibition
attending sex clubs regularly
Finally, an indication of sex addiction is a built-up tolerance to certain behaviors. In other words, the need to engage in riskier behaviors simply to obtain the same result.
Keep in mind; sexual behavior doesn't have to be extreme to classify as sex addiction. Instead, like any addiction, it's about the inability to stop behaviors regardless of the risks or consequences.
What to Expect From Sex Addiction Treatment?
The DSM is a book of mental health diagnoses put out by the APA. This is an essential tool that therapists use for both diagnosis and treatment purposes. Likewise, regarding health insurance, a listing in the DSM may determine insurance coverage.
Sex addiction is not in the DSM. Yet, many mental health professionals recognize and treat sex addiction although it may not be the specific diagnosis. However, there are substantial similarities between sex addiction and other addictions. For example, the addiction cycle seems to be the same, regardless of the type of addiction:
trigger/craving
plan and carry out addictive behavior
achieve desired high
trigger/craving
experience negative and intense emotions until engaging in addictive behavior
This vicious cycle continues until there is an intervention to interrupt the pattern of use or behaviors.
Where Can I Find Sex Addiction Help?
There are many approaches to sex addiction treatment. Examples include outpatient or residential treatment centers, support groups, individual and group therapy.
Together, a therapist will develop a unique treatment plan that aims to address the addiction. Likewise, they'll identify underlying issues and treat them accordingly.
If you, or someone you love, has a sex addiction, help is available. Now is a great time to reach out for support and begin the fight to regain control of your life.
Therapists at Counseling Alliance LLC have advanced training and years of experience in working with sexual addiction and those impacted by that addiction. We understand the pain that problematic sexual behavior can cause. We offer lasting solutions. Contact us today to start on the road to recovery.
I would recommend Counseling Alliance to anyone needing Sex Addiction help!
