Do you or someone you know need sex addiction treatment? Stigmas around addiction issues can prevent people from asking for help, and issues regarding sex are even more highly stigmatized.
However, there’s no reason to feel ashamed. Also known as hypersexuality, sexual addiction is a type of mental health condition that can be managed with the right support. Sexual addiction is similar to other addiction disorders in that people return to unhealthy behaviors despite knowing there are negative consequences.
This condition can destroy relationships, erode a person’s self-esteem, and lead to substance use disorders. Many factors or combinations of factors can cause sexual addiction. Fortunately, treatment at Promises Behavioral Health can help.
The Symptoms of Sex Addiction
The idea of being addicted to sex may seem funny to some people, but sex addiction is no laughing matter to those who live with the condition. Like people with substance use disorders, those with hypersexuality may be willing to risk everything in their lives for the next sexual experience.
For someone with a sex addiction, sex is no longer an enjoyable activity. It becomes an obsession that consumes their time and money and erodes their self-esteem. Some of the symptoms of sex addiction include:
- Spending an excessive amount of time thinking about or planning the next sexual activity
- Frequent use of sexual services, such as phone sex services, chat rooms, or visits to strip clubs
- Excessive amounts of money spent on pursuing sexual experiences
- Frequent use of pornography
- Frequent masturbation (once or more a day)
- Inability to maintain relationships because of sexual activity
- Sexual behavior that becomes increasingly risky
- Agreeing to sexual activity that goes against your personal beliefs or that you feel is demeaning
- Frequent engagement in paraphilia (behaviors that involve hurting or distressing others)
- Frequent diagnosis of sexually transmitted diseases
- Feeling an overwhelming and totally uncontrollable need for sex or masturbation
- Intense shame or guilt about your sexual behavior
If a person cannot control their sexual behavior despite numerous negative consequences, such as risking their health, destroying relationships, or putting their financial security in jeopardy, entering treatment for sex addiction can help.
Like other forms of addiction, sex addiction can’t be “cured,” but it’s possible to manage your behavior with the right support and evidence-based treatments.
What Causes Sex Addiction?
Not as much study has been dedicated to understanding hypersexuality as other addictive disorders, such as substance use disorder. However, a number of factors are thought to contribute to the development of sex addiction, including:
- Conditions that damage the area of the brain that controls sexual behavior, such as epilepsy or dementia
- Brain chemical imbalance
- Substance use disorders, especially amphetamine, cocaine, and alcohol use disorders
- Side effects of some medications, such as levodopa
- Altered brain function
- Sexual abuse and other forms of sexual trauma
- Early exposure to sexual content
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
People with impulse control disorders, ADHD, some personality disorders, or a history of addiction problems may have a higher risk of developing hypersexuality.
Treatments Available for Sex Addiction
Hypersexuality typically requires a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and self-help group therapy. Medications may include antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and Naltrexone.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) have both been found to be effective in helping people cope with unwanted thoughts and reduce impulsive behavior.
Self-help groups modeled after the well-known 12-step program can also be effective. Peer-led groups provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment where people can get support and connect with local resources.
The exact treatment program depends on the root cause of the behavior and the individual’s overall health. People who are also struggling with substance use disorders or other co-occurring conditions may benefit from dual-diagnosis treatment.
Take Charge of Your Sexual Addiction at Promises Behavioral Health
Don’t let hypersexuality rule your life and destroy your chance of maintaining healthy relationships. Treatment can reduce symptoms and allow people to live happier, healthier lives.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with sex addiction, help is available with sex addiction treatment. Call Promises Behavioral Health at 844.875.5609 and get started on your healing journey today. You can also reach us using our online contact form.