Sex Addiction in Men

In today’s society, participating in sexual gratification is widely available and accepted. But when a man is compelled to continually give in to sexual impulses and to treat sex as a method of escaping from the stress of life, he may have a problem with sex addiction. Like other forms of addiction, sex addiction can be difficult to overcome without help. Men struggling with sex addiction or intimacy disorders have several options for treatment. Although it’s possible to obtain treatment on an outpatient basis, specialized treatment in a men’s addiction treatment center is much more focused. In a gender-specific environment, male sex addicts can work on learning about recovery in a supportive setting surrounded by others who face similar challenges.

Types of Sex Addiction in Men

Problems with sex addiction, also known as hypersexual disorder, in men can happen in a variety of forms. Some men are constantly unfaithful to devoted partners while others are unable to establish any kind of emotional intimacy at all. Some sex addicts are obsessive about viewing porn or masturbating compulsively. Whatever form it takes, sex addiction can lead to devastating consequences. It can destroy relationships, jobs, health and self-respect. 

Overcoming Sex Addiction 

At a men’s addiction treatment center, it is possible to heal from this compulsive behavior. Through therapy and support groups, sex addicts can begin to recover from shame and work toward rebuilding damaged relationships and self-esteem. It’s a safe environment for learning how to recognize triggers, address the underlying issues and comorbid disorders that may be fueling the behavior, and learn new coping skills. Mental health professionals can determine whether there are other problems that also need to be treated, such as depression, anxiety or substance abuse.  For patients with sex addiction, a goal of complete abstinence is unrealistic, but with treatment, it is possible to learn to control compulsive sexual behaviors that are causing problems and leading to unwanted consequences. Source: National Institute of Health: Understanding and Managing Compulsive Sexual Behaviors https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2945841/