Like all addictions, sex addiction can be defined as a compulsive pursuit of something which eventually does harm to the addict and their relationships with family and friends.

sex and pornography treatment
Sex or pornography

Unlike many other addictions, sex addiction has a very wide range of symptoms and scope for expression. Being a sex addict for one person may mean compulsive masturbation, whilst for another it could express itself in more destructive ways such as the compulsive seeking of new sexual partners.

Given the wide availability, Counsellors & Psychologists are now seeing many people struggle with addiction to massage parlours, prostitution and internet pornography.

Importantly, counselling professionals including Counsellors and Psychologists, can offer therapy as a means of treating sex addiction by helping the patient to understand and express the underlying issues triggering their sex addiction before they are acted upon in a self-destructive manner.
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Symptoms of sexual addiction

symptoms of sexual addiction

As mentioned above, Sex Addiction has a much wider range of symptoms than most addictions which will vary widely from person to person. One person will not necessarily exhibit all the symptoms listed below:

• Excessive or compulsive masturbation, with or without the use of pornography.
• Excessive or compulsive use of pornography (including the internet – see also our page on internet addiction).
• Compulsive seeking of multiple sexual partners.
• Self-destructive or harmful sexual practise (unsafe sex, self mutilation).
• Excessive use of fantasy (including internet or other pornography) to escape from reality.
• Prostitution addiction – The compulsive use of sex workers (including phone sex services) including massage parlour addiction, to a degree where it places a strain on the individual’s relationships, finances or psychological wellbeing (experience of shame, guilt, etc).
• Compulsive behaviour which leads to the committing of crimes such as exhibitionism, voyeurism, or sexual abuse.

In America, sexual addiction has been defined by The National Council on Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity. They deem sexual addiction as “engaging in persistent and escalating patterns of sexual behavior acted out despite increasing negative consequences to self and others.” So we might say that the sex addict continues their behaviour despite the potential costs whether they be financial, emotional or health related.

Also, the main guide to psychiatric diagnosis, The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Psychiatric Disorders, Volume Four, classified sex addiction as “distress about a pattern of repeated sexual relationships involving a succession of lovers who are experienced by the individual only as things to be used.” They go on to state that it is characterised by a “compulsive searching for multiple partners, compulsive fixation on an unattainable partner, compulsive masturbation, compulsive love relationships and compulsive sexuality in a relationship.” If you are suffering from compulsive sexual behaviour you may well relate to these descriptions.

If you feel that you are suffering from any of the above symptoms, counselling therapy provided by a professional Counsellors or Psychologist may be helpful in breaking the compulsion to act out on harmful sexual behaviour.

Associated Counsellors & Psychologists Sydney is able to refer you to a practitioner with experience in compulsions and addictions. Contact us in complete confidence to make an enquiry or a booking.

You may also wish to visit ‘ pornography addiction ‘ – a new web project aimed at helping people with pornography and sex addiction.

Please note that in providing counselling treatment it is mandatory for clinicians to report persons who engage in acts which seriously harm others including all acts against the interests of children which may include the use or production of child pornography where there is an identified child victim.

If you feel that seeking treatment in such areas will compromise you, we suggest you seek help with an offender counselling organisation in your area.

Common mispellings and alternative search terms used to find this page include: sex counseling, sex counceling, porno addiction, pron addiction counselling, pron addiction, net addiction, porn counselling.

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Sexual Addiction

  • What is sexual addiction?

    Sexual addiction is a type of behavioural addiction marked by compulsive engagement in sexual activity, even when it leads to negative consequences. It's described as a progressive intimacy disorder characterised by compulsive sexual thoughts and actions.

  • What is pornography addiction?

    Pornography addiction is a specific type of sexual addiction where an individual has an unhealthy obsession with pornography. It's when an individual spends excessive time viewing pornography to the point that it interferes with their personal life, work, or relationships.

  • What is prostitution addiction?

    Prostitution addiction, also known as sex buying addiction, is a subtype of sexual addiction where a person has compulsive urges to engage in sexual activities with sex workers. Like other forms of addiction, it often leads to negative personal, social, or professional consequences.

  • What are some common signs of sexual addiction?

    Some common signs of sexual addiction may include: engaging in sexual behaviour that you feel unable to control, neglecting responsibilities in favour of sexual activities, inability to stop despite negative consequences, excessive time spent on sexual fantasies, and escalated need for intensity, frequency, or risk to achieve satisfaction.

  • How does pornography addiction develop?

    The exact cause of pornography addiction is not fully understood. However, repeated exposure to pornography can cause the brain to release dopamine, which can lead to the development of a compulsive desire to seek out this form of stimulation. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression may also contribute.

  • How can I tell if I'm addicted to pornography?

    If you're spending excessive amounts of time viewing pornography, neglecting other areas of your life because of it, feeling unable to control your use, and experiencing distress when trying to cut down or stop, you might be struggling with a pornography addiction. Consulting a mental health professional is always advisable in such situations.

  • Yes, research has shown that sexual addiction can often co-occur with other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. However, each person's situation is unique, and not everyone with a sexual addiction will have another mental health condition.

  • Can sexual addiction lead to physical health issues?

    Yes, sexual addiction can lead to physical health issues, including the increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to potentially risky sexual behaviour.

  • How is sexual addiction treated?

    Treatment for sexual addiction typically involves psychotherapy, often cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), to help individuals understand and change patterns of thought and behaviour. Self-help and support groups can also be beneficial, as can certain medications in some cases.

  • Can sexual addiction be cured?

    While there's not a "cure" per se, sexual addiction can be effectively managed with the right treatment and support. With appropriate professional help, individuals can regain control over their behaviour and work towards a healthier sexual life.

  • Can pornography addiction affect relationships?

    Yes, pornography addiction can cause significant harm to relationships. It can lead to trust issues, emotional distance, and sexual dissatisfaction in the relationship. Moreover, it can also lead to neglect of responsibilities and conflict.

  • How can a partner or loved one support someone with a sexual addiction?

    A loved one can provide emotional support, encourage treatment, and maintain clear boundaries to protect their own well-being. It's also important to remember that recovery takes time and patience.

  • How does a person recover from prostitution addiction?

    Recovery from prostitution addiction typically involves therapy to address the underlying issues contributing to the addiction, including possible trauma or emotional pain. Self-help and peer support groups can also be beneficial.

  • Is it possible to prevent sexual addiction?

    There's no guaranteed way to prevent sexual addiction. However, building strong relationships, learning healthy ways to cope with stress, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle may help.

  • Where can one seek help for sexual addiction?

    Counselling Sydney (counsellingsydney.com.au), provides both online and in-person counselling for sexual and pornography addiction at multiple locations in Sydney. Our trained professionals can offer support and therapeutic interventions tailored to your needs.

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