What is sex and porn addiction?
Sex addiction can describe any sexual behaviour that feels out of control or starts to have a negative impact on your life. For some people, it’s one behaviour that’s become hard to manage. For others, it’s a mix of things that feel compulsive or difficult to stop, even when they want to.
These behaviours might include:
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Spending a lot of time watching pornography, sometimes at the expense of work, relationships, or sleep
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Paying for online sexual content, such as through webcam services or platforms like OnlyFans
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Compulsive sexting or using dating apps, chatrooms, online sex, or phone sex in ways that feel difficult to stop
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Seeking out escorts or anonymous sex, often with a sense of secrecy or urgency
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Having multiple affairs, even when it goes against personal values
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Repetitive behaviours like frequent masturbation, or engaging in voyeuristic or exhibitionistic activities
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Reliance on specific fetishes, where sexual arousal feels limited to certain objects or scenarios
For some, these behaviours develop as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, shame, loneliness, or even boredom. Over time, though, they can start to take over. They may cause distress, damage relationships, and impact everyday life.
Porn addiction in particular is becoming increasingly common. You might find yourself watching more extreme material, struggling to cut back, or noticing that your use is starting to replace other things that matter to you.
If you're finding it hard to stop on your own, you're not alone. Therapy offers a supportive, confidential space to explore what’s happening beneath the surface and find more helpful, sustainable ways of managing emotional and sexual needs.
Common consequences of sex addiction include:
- Distress and Isolation: Feelings of shame and guilt can lead to emotional distress and social withdrawal.
- Relationship Problems: Addiction can cause significant strain on personal relationships, leading to conflicts and loss of trust.
- Financial Issues: The costs associated with addictive behaviours, such as visiting escorts or subscribing to pornographic content, can lead to financial difficulties.
Elaine Tarsh, a professional and accredited sex addiction therapist, offers specialised counselling to help clients recover from sex and porn addiction. Her approach is designed to help individuals build healthy, fulfilling lives free from shame and regret.
If you want to arrange a professional, confidential, non-judgmental porn addiction counselling session, contact me today Tel : 07577 992 918 or Email:
