3 Ways to Beat Sexual Addiction

1. See a Counselor

One of the most effective ways of breaking a sexual addiction is to see a professional counselor who specializes in addiction issues. Intensive one-on-one therapy on an outpatient basis is the preferred method for treating most addictions, and it works well for sexual addiction. Your counselor will explore your addiction with you, probing its depths until the roots of it are found.

When the roots of the addiction are discovered, your counselor will help you understand what helped those roots take shape and why they are there. Once you understand what led to your addiction, your counselor will help you develop the mental tools necessary to overcome it. You will work to replace the addiction with healthy self-images and coping techniques so that you don't fall back into your old patterns.

2. Visit a Twelve-Step Group Therapy Program

There are several twelve-step group therapy programs designed for sex addicts. Sex Addicts Anonymous is one of the better-known programs. It follows the basic twelve-step model created by Alcoholics Anonymous, using group meetings, behavior modification instruction and accountability to gradually reduce a sex addict's reliance on destructive and compulsive sexual behavior. Potential members are carefully screened to make sure they are really sex addicts and truly want to get help, and aren't just looking for more sex partners.

Each member will come up with his own definition of "sexual sobriety," and agrees not to engage in behaviors that go against this definition. Members also learn about the "three circles" model of sexual behavior. Behaviors that fall into the inner circle are definitely destructive and must be avoided. Behaviors in the middle circle are questionable and could lead to trouble, though they aren't forbidden. Finally, behaviors in the outer circle are healthy and may be practiced regularly.

3. Consider Medication

There are drugs available that reduce the sex drive by adjusting hormone levels in your body. Antidepressants may also be beneficial in reducing the compulsive nature of some destructive sexual behaviors. Medications are usually reserved for people with the most serious addictions, as every medication has potential side effects. Also, once you've stopped taking the medication, your old addictive urges will probably come back unless you've also undergone comprehensive psychological counseling to get to the root of your problem. For serious addicts, however, medications can be an effective supplement to other kinds of therapy.