What is Sexual Addiction ?

Sexual addiction, or sex addiction, is a process addiction which leads to compulsive sexual acts and/or thoughts. Just like any addiction, sex addiction is caused by a malfunction in the brain’s reward circuitry. Sex addiction can be difficult to identify, even for those experiencing it.

Whilst it varies from person to person, some features of sex addiction include:

• Negative consequences caused by sexual behaviour
• Disruptions to family, work and personal life
• Disruptions to sense of personal identity
• Extreme feelings of shame and guilt, which can lead to depression and isolation
• Enjoyment of sexual behaviours which may be problematic, such as touching others without their consent or exploitative sex

Consequences of Sex Addiction

Left untreated, sex addiction has many detrimental effects on a person’s life, and can often lead to the following consequences:

• Strained or destroyed relationships
• Contracting a sexually transmitted infection
• Lack of enjoyment in life and isolation from others
• Tendency to more addictions (i.e. drugs, alcohol or gambling addiction)
• Loss of interest in work or school
• Serious feelings of shame, guilt, hopelessness and depression
• Financial turmoil
• Imprisonment

Overall, sex addiction wrecks havoc on personal lives on many levels. It is also nearly impossible to stop on your own, because complete abstinence is not realistic for most people. In addition, triggers are unavoidable as we are constantly surrounded by images and messages of sex. Without professional treatment, sex addiction is incredibly difficult to combat.

Treatment Options of Sex Addiction

Luckily, there are treatments available that are effective and confidential. As with any addiction, treatment methods for sexual addiction vary, with many focusing on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). This focuses on uncovering and addressing the emotional and psychological reason for the development of addiction. Changing habits or patterns of behaviour is critical, as is understanding and tackling the underlying causes of addiction.

For some, sexual addiction can co-occur with other addictions, such as drug or alcohol addiction and it is important that these behaviours are also addressed.

In the case of sex addiction, it is especially essential to develop relapse prevention skills, as permanent abstinence from sex is not realistic. It is vital that those recovering from sexual addiction feel confident leaving inpatient treatment, armed with the tools to remain free from addiction and the ability to engage in healthy sexual behaviours.

The Cabin in Chiang Mai : Effective Confidential Treatment for Sex Addiction

The Edge at The Cabin is a 12-week treatment programme designed specifically for young men between the ages of 18-25. It promotes a holistic approach to effectively and successfully treat sexual addiction. This includes combining specialised behavioural management techniques, individual and group counselling, physical activity and experiential therapy. Our world-leading addiction treatment is designed especially for young men with their lived experiences in mind. The Cabin offers separate programmes for men, young men, women and the LGBT+ community, with The Edge catering only to young male sex addicts, ensuring there are no romantic distractions.

Our residential treatment centre, part of The Cabin in Chiang Mai, offers clients an environment away from triggers and temptations so they can fully focus on their recovery. Premium villa accommodation in beautiful surroundings includes healthy cuisine, spacious gym and swimming pools, providing a home away from home.

Clients have access to various different types of therapy to ensure their individual needs are covered. All of our counsellors are Western-trained to the highest standard and we have a number of specialist ‘CSAT’ trained counsellors, who specialise in understanding and treating sexual addictions.

Get Help Now!

If you are concerned about the nature of your sex life or sexual relationships, Fill out the short form or call The Cabin today to talk about The Edge Programme and receive a free and confidential consultation.