How to Know When You Need Help for Sex Addiction

It is completely natural to be sexually attracted to others in your life. It’s human nature and absolutely healthy.  If your appetite for sex is becoming a debilitating factor in your life that you have difficulty controlling, however, then this is less healthy.  Here are some of the warning signs that your need for sex may be an addiction or problematic.

Obsession

Sex addicts have obsessive thoughts about sexual acts that often lead to actions they feel they are unable to control. It may be difficult to concentrate on anything else. You may find yourself spending more and more time dedicated to pursuing sexual pleasure, either by looking for potential partners or engaging in other outlets, such as pornography and sex websites.

Withdrawal from Life

Thoughts of sex and your unyielding desire to pursue sexual activities has a negative impact on relationships with friends, family, and significant others. You may find you spend less time interacting with the people you care about, ditching established plans with friends, or skipping work in order to find release from the cravings you can’t seem to sway. It is especially dangerous when your need for sex outweighs your concern for the health and safety of others, as well as your own health and risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

Excessive Spending

You spend an exorbitant amount of money on pornography, phone sex services, and sex-related websites. The willingness to pay for sex with prostitutes is another indicator. If you find that the majority of your paycheck or a large portion of the money you receive is being spent on sex, consider seeking professional advice.

Inability to Stop

A major indicator that you may need sex addiction counseling is that you have tried to change your thoughts and behaviors but haven’t been successful. What’s more, you’ve found that your cravings and inappropriate actions have been escalating in frequency and are more and more difficult to ignore.

Don’t let addiction lead you to live in the shadows. Come into the light and get help.  You will feel better about yourself and your relationships.   The Center for Marriage and Family Counseling can help. Our qualified team can provide you with the support you need in order to return to your life. Call us at (214) 250-7808 today to set up an appointment.