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Signs & symptoms of sex addiction
Worried about sex addiction?
Find out more about the signs and symptoms of sex addiction from the experts at Delamere wellness retreat
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Holisitic approach to recovery
Flexible stays
Personalised programmes
Private luxury accommodation
24-hour care & support
What is sex addiction?
Compulsive sexual behaviour (CSB), or sex addiction, is described as repetitive, intrusive and distressing sexual thoughts, urges and behaviours that negatively affect many aspects of an individual’s life (1). A person who is addicted to sex will have an uncontrollable desire to achieve sexual stimulation whether that’s through having intercourse, watching pornography, masturbation, visiting prostitutes or calling sex chat lines.
Most people can engage in these activities without having any major issues but, when sexual pleasure becomes a compulsive pursuit, it can have devastating and far-reaching consequences. Sex addiction is no different than alcohol, drug or other addictions. Compulsive behaviour of any kind can have negative effects on relationships, work or education, physical and mental health.
At Delamere, we treat all kinds of addiction with compassion and empathy. We help our guests to find out what’s driving their sex addiction and how to overcome obsessive thoughts and behaviours. Our holistic therapists treat the whole person, emotionally, physically and psychologically, providing a caring, supportive environment to grow beyond addiction.
If you need help with sex addiction, contact our team today and learn more about the different programmes we offer here at Delamere.
Signs and symptoms of sex addiction
Sex is a perfectly normal and natural part of human nature. There is a big difference between getting pleasure from sexual activity and being addicted to it. If someone suffers with sex addiction, they may place an unhealthy importance on achieving sexual stimulation and feel agitated or distressed if they can’t have it. In the extreme, a person suffering from sex addiction might engage in illicit sex acts or reckless behaviour. There are different emotional and physical signs that indicate someone may be addicted to sex. If you notice any of these traits in yourself or a partner, it’s time to seek help.
Symptoms of sex addiction
Uncontrollable and constant sexual fantasies, urges and behaviours
Feeling guilt, shame or regret after engaging in sexual acts
Using sex to process emotions or escape other problems
Having multiple sexual partners or being unfaithful
Engaging in risky behaviours such as visiting prostitutes
Habitually masturbating or watching pornography
Neglecting responsibilities in favour of sex
Being unable to stop or reduce time spent on sexual activities
The effects of sex addiction
As with any other addictions, a person who is dealing with sex addiction is likely to prioritise sex over other commitments. Their work may suffer, they may start to neglect their partner and show disregard for dangerous sexual activities, such as sleeping with multiple partners. This can lead to job loss, unwanted pregnancies, house evictions and relationship breakdowns that affect everyone in their lives.
Sex addiction is especially hard on the person’s partner who can be left feeling isolated, inadequate and emotionally scarred. It’s important that you don’t try to tackle addiction alone. Seek help from specialist sex addiction therapists who can help you to overcome difficulties together.
Treatment for sex addiction
Sex addiction was formally classified as an impulse disorder by the World Health Organisation in 2019. This means, thankfully, people can now access the treatment and support they need. Some neurological disorders can make a person more susceptible to suffering with sex addiction, as can certain medications or illicit drugs. These factors need to be considered before an accurate diagnosis can be made (1).
Psychotherapy is often the first line treatment for those dealing with sex addiction. At Delamere, we offer one-to-one counselling, group therapy sessions and other talking therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), at our purpose-built retreat in Cheshire. We will look at all aspects of your life to understand the reasons behind your addiction and help you develop effective strategies to overcome compulsive thoughts.
The Delamere approach to sex addiction
Sex addiction is a complex condition that requires expert treatment from a dedicated psychotherapist. At Delamere, we have a team of qualified holistic therapists that are here to listen without judgement. We can help you to address the underlying factors for your sex addiction and formulate a plan for successful recovery.
Our residential rehab programmes encompass a wide range of evidence-based therapies for sex addiction which will help to pinpoint what is driving your compulsive behaviour and any other problems that may be causing it. We use a combination of talking therapies and somatic healing experiences, such as breathwork, grounding techniques, art and equine therapy, to help you develop coping mechanisms to use when you leave our care.
Sex addiction frequently occurs with other conditions, including anxiety and depression, or alongside other addictions, such as alcohol or substance abuse. We can help you to address all of these issues in comfortable surroundings using our unique, three-step approach.
Start
Spend time with our therapists to discover what led you to this behaviour in the first place
Delamere Treatment Model
Our core elements of treatment
We believe that whatever the reason for sex addiction – whether to deal with past trauma or escape negative emotions – it has to start somewhere. Rather than adhering to the conventional step-based programmes, we look at underlying factors that drive your behaviour. Only by recognising how you arrived at this point can you begin to positively shape your future.
Stopping the cycle of addiction safely and comfortably
Healing whatever pain is causing the behaviour
Instilling tools to help facilitate change and encourage continued growth
Why choose Delamere?
Holistic approach to recovery
Discreet location
Luxury ensuite accommodation
Personalised programmes
Flexible stays
24-hour care & support
On-site gym & health studio
Business & family lounges
Free collection service
Outcomes focused
Everything we do here is about outcomes. Focusing on getting you back to yourself again in the short term, but then growing beyond that when you leave Delamere. Helping you create the foundations for long-term recovery and growth.
Individual care
There’s no one-size-fits-all here. We listen, learn and tailor our programmes to meet your personal needs, whatever they may be. Your journey to recovery is yours, so we design our programmes with you in mind.
Creative therapies
Nature and creativity often bring out the best in people, especially after a difficult period in their life. We offer equine and art therapy, fire ceremonies, nature walks and more to help you relax, reflect and see the world in a new way.
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Real life stories
Know someone who needs help with a sex addiction?
If a friend, family member or work colleague is addicted to sex, it’s important they get help.
Our admissions team is on hand 24/7 to help answer any questions about our therapeutic programmes and make sure your loved one gets the support they need.
Call the team today on 0330 111 2015 to discuss the different options available.
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