Sex addiction is a mental health condition that requires treatment. It is not a disease, and there is help available. In fact, it is treatable, and can be cured without the need for a 12-step program. Read on to learn more about sexual addiction treatment and the many options available to you. In the meantime, find the help you need today to overcome your sexual addiction. Listed below are some of the options available to you.

Sex addiction is a mental health condition

Sex addiction is a mental health condition that leads to compulsive, obsessive thoughts and behaviors that interfere with an individual’s life. Addiction is defined as compulsive behavior related to a substance, and sexual addiction is no exception. It is defined in the DSM-5, a manual for diagnosing mental health conditions published by the American Psychological Association. Compulsive sexual behavior is also associated with medications that target dopamine, a substance produced by the brain.

Sexual addiction is a severe condition in which a person becomes obsessed with the idea of having sex and the corresponding actions. This disorder has long-lasting and damaging effects on a person’s mental, physical, and social health. However, it is possible to overcome the symptoms of sex addiction with the help of specialized care and treatment. For many people, sex addiction is a cause of shame, humiliation, and self-hatred. If you have experienced any of these symptoms, you may need to seek treatment.

It’s treatable

Thankfully, a variety of treatments are available. Behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help patients change the thoughts that are contributing to their compulsive sexual behavior. Other therapies, such as psychodynamic therapy, aim to help individuals become aware of unconscious thoughts and identify conflicts within themselves. These treatments can help clients achieve a sense of peace and confidence about their relationship with their partner. Regardless of the method used, sexual addiction is treatable.

The best treatment for sexual addiction involves addressing the underlying causes of the behavior. While many people associate sex with love, the truth is that sex addiction lacks this emotional element. Sexual satisfaction is not motivated by a desire for closeness or a relationship. The key to treating this type of addiction involves exploring the reasons behind it and identifying effective coping mechanisms. There is no one solution for this type of disorder, but treatment options do exist.

It’s not a disease

The term sexual addiction is often used to describe behaviors similar to substance use disorders. In essence, sexual addiction involves a person’s over-involvement in sexual activity, a loss of control over one’s sex life, and an inability to stop despite adverse consequences. Studies of self-identified sexual addicts have demonstrated a significant degree of personal distress and negative consequences of their behavior. Yet despite its prevalence, the DSM-5 does not recognize sexual addiction as a disease.

While many psychiatrists are wary of classifying sex use as an actual illness, research has suggested that it’s possible for a person to develop an addiction to sex. Fortunately, more people are seeking treatment for this problem. Often, treatment plans involve individual therapy or 12-step groups based on programs for chemical dependence. Tiger Woods’ public apology speech mirrored a common 12-step recovery program.

It’s not a 12-step program

The most common misconception about sexual addiction and the 12-step program is that both focus on sobriety. While both groups use the same 12-step recovery process, the focus in SA is on compulsive sexual behaviors, while SAA focuses on lust. Both programs are based on the belief that the primary cause of sexual addiction is past relationship conflict. In order to fully recover from sexual addiction, it’s important to identify these differences and work with a certified therapist to help you recover. The closest S-Anon meeting is also a good option, because they are a twelve-step program for individuals who have been affected by the nature of sexual behavior.

While many therapists and counselors believe that there’s no single solution for overcoming sexual addiction, some peer support groups are helpful. Support groups provide accountability and a judgment-free environment for addicts. To attend a support group, however, you must be ready to face the reality of the disorder and become a part of it. You must also be willing to stop lusting, which can be difficult to accomplish on your own.