Sex addiction is a term that describes a sexual compulsion or sexual habit that is out of control and/or is causing those affected great concern. Most often sexual addiction is reported in men, particularly since the availability of broadband and more recently 3G mobile services. Often there is heavy use of pornography involved along with chat lines, sex lines, dating sites and affair sites. These are visited in secret and the extent of the behaviour is kept hidden by the sex addict. Other forms can be serial betraying in ‘supposedly monogamous’ relationships, paying for sex, online sex etc.
When addicted to sex a sex addict will do all they can to hide their behaviour. Indeed, dishonesty and selfishness are key components in the process. Some signs to look out for:
If when you want to you find that you cannot stop, or when you are ‘acting out’ you have little or no control over the type, frequency and/or duration of the sexual behaviour then you might be addicted to sex. The general criteria for sex addiction and sexual compulsion is as follows however, only three need to be present at any one time, 1 Recurrent failure to resist sexual impulses to engage in specific sexual behaviour 2 Frequent engaging in those behaviours to a greater extent or over a longer period of time than intended 3 Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to stop, reduce, or control those behaviours 4 Inordinate amount of time spent in obtaining sex, being sexual, or recovering from sexual experiences 5 Preoccupation with the behaviours or preparatory activities 6 Frequent engaging in the behaviour when expected to fulfil occupational, academic, domestic, or social obligations 7 Continuation of the behaviour, despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent social, financial, psychological, or physical problem that is caused or exacerbated by the behaviour 8 The need to increase the intensity, frequency, number, or risk of behaviours to achieve the desired effect, or diminished effect with continued behaviours at the same level of intensity, frequency, number, or risk 9 Giving up or limiting social, occupational, or recreational activities because of the behaviour 10 Distress, anxiety, restlessness, or irritability if unable to engage in the behaviour
At pcug.co.uk we have psychologists ready to discuss various treatment options. In general the approaches to treat this disorder are one to one sex addiction counselling and sex addiction and sexual compulsion residential programmes. Where to find help for sex addiction often involves an exhausting search on the internet. At pcug.co.uk we specialise in giving the right kind of support and guidance. Where to find sex addiction help in London is one of the most common questions we address. At Triage Healthcare we can assess the level of your sex addiction and suggest a tailor made treatment plan. Call us now on 0800 246 5293 for free, confidential and immediate advice.