Although not listed in the DSM-5, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-V, research indicates sex and porn addictions are similar to chemical addictions.

Sex addiction is defined as a lack of control over sexual impulses, thoughts, and urges, done in excess, which have significant negative impact on their lives.

The Symptoms

Sexual addiction can take many forms, from consuming pornography, excessive masturbation, or fantasizing to a preoccupation with sexual acts, sadistic or masochistic sex, voyeurism, exhibition, and prostitution. Like many forms of addiction, sexual addiction moves beyond the normal into an obsession. Extreme conditions can lead to inappropriate and risky behaviors and may include sexual offenses, including stalking and rape.

The Signs

From a lack of boundaries to feelings of alienation, isolation, and depression, there are many signs of sex addiction, some subtle, some overt. Many sexual addicts move from relationship to relationship, quickly falling into sexual relationships. They may have mood swings, joke about sex, and constantly make sexual innuendos. Deception, cheating, and, when in a relationship, escalating sexual demands are typical, often leading to the partner feeling guilt over not being about to satisfy their sex addicted partner.

Consequences

Sexual addiction, like other addictions, impacts all facets of a person’s life, from decreased success and productivity at work to declining relationships from friends and family, to personal and intimate. An inability to control their behavior leads many sex addicts down the parallel paths of depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and other obsessive-compulsive disorders.

If you think your partner is a sex addict, it is essential to set up boundary conditions and consider the consequences if your partner is into more than excessive masturbation and porn. According to the USDA, a large percentage of sex addicts end up with an STDs.

Treatment

Yes – from couples to group counseling to one-on-one. CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR – Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and psychodynamic therapy.

There is help if you, or someone you care about, is addicted to sex or porn, call us today at Mindful Centers or book an appointment online.