What causes sex addiction?
Sexual addiction can simply be seen as a coping mechanism (much as alcohol is to the alcoholic, food to the overeater, etc.). However, as with many mental health issues, the causes of this addiction are complex. I often see some common themes such as: abuse in childhood, lack of adequate nurturing as a child, intimacy problems, depression, anxiety and certain ingrained personality factors. Another significant contribution is the way men are socialized. Is there treatment? The good news is that there is treatment and motivated individuals have had good success. I help clients learn to get their real needs met in healthy ways. New ways of coping are learned. Processing old family issues is often useful. Helping the client to deal with underlying depression, anxiety, etc., is also important. Twelve-step groups around sexual compulsivity are hugely helpful in breaking isolation, reducing shame, and building support/accountability. I work together with my clients to determine the best treat
