Are you struggling with an addiction to sex or pornography?

Have your sexual behaviors become compulsive and maladaptive?

Have you been unfaithful to your partner?

Are you engaging in promiscuous and unsafe sex with multiple partners?

If you answered “yes” to these questions, you may have a sex addiction, or a tendency to engage in sexually compulsive behavior.

What is Sex Addiction?

Individuals with a sexual addiction engage in compulsive, sexually motivated behaviors, despite negative consequences. It is estimated that between 12 and 30 million Americans engage in compulsive sexual behaviors. Most people seek out sex from time to time. However, someone with sexual addiction is consumed with obsessive thoughts and fantasies of a sexual nature. They frequently prioritize sexual activity over time with family, friends, and work.

Signs of Sex Addiction:

• Periods of promiscuity and unsafe sex with multiple partners
• Voyeurism
• Exhibitionism
• Excessive masturbation
• Multiple acts of infidelity
• Use of prostitutes
• Engaging in cyber-sex or “sexting”

Compulsive Sexual Behavior and Mental Health

Most cases of compulsive sexual behavior occur in conjunction with the following mental health conditions:

• Chemical dependency (Substance Use Disorders)
• Gambling addiction
• Depression
• Anxiety
• ADHD
• Compulsive shopping

Some people may engage in compulsive sexual behavior as a way of coping with emotional distress or trauma. Many individuals also report a history of trauma and/or abuse.

• 72% report a history of physical abuse
• 81% report a history of sexual abuse
• 97% report a history of emotional abuse

 

If you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors, I want you to know that you aren’t alone. I know it’s not easy to talk about sex or to acknowledge that one has an addiction, so it’s incredibly important to find a therapist who is compassionate and who understands addiction. Use the link below to schedule a free consultation, or call my office at (317) 754-0808.