Like any addiction, be it drugs, alcohol, or gambling, an addict engages in his addiction in a compulsive, unhealthy and painful way, often with very severe consequences to himself and those close to him.

A sex addict engages in sexually compulsive behavior, and uses these impulses to manage his or her stress levels.  Craving comfort and relief, more and more time becomes devoted to seeking a sexual high, which becomes the main focus of a sex addict.

This loss of control disrupts lives and leads to  shame and secrecy.  Although an addict hates his behavior, he is engulfed in this compulsive cycle for a  temporary comfort. Lies follow, with emotional withdrawal from those close to him. Eventually a double life develops. Does this sound like anyone you know? Treatment is available.

Examples of Sexually Addictive Behaviors

• Compulsive masturbation
• Obsessive sexual and/or romantic fantasy
• Compulsive infidelities that include physical and emotional affairs
• Compulsive use of pornography
• Compulsive use of prostitutes/massage parlors
• Compulsive use of strip clubs
• Anonymous sex
•  Sexual Chat/Web Cam Imaging/Hook-Ups
• Exhibitionism
• Voyeurism

Psychotherapy for sex addiction:

Psychotherapy focuses on the individual and his or her needs, feelings and goals. Treatment will involve working through shame and faulty beliefs about oneself and the world to develop better communication and intimacy with friends and loved ones. Each individual has unique past experiences which will be explored in therapy.

With time and commitment recovery and relief is possible.