While sex addiction can have devastating effects on relationships, career and physical health, it is possible to recover. However, recovery requires commitment and often includes therapy. Some people choose to go it alone, while others opt for a support group like Sex Addicts Anonymous or a one-on-one therapist. It’s important to find a therapist who specializes in sexual addiction as it can be more complex than other addictions.

Initially, the goal is to stop compulsive sexual behavior. This might include stopping masturbation, avoiding pornography or phone sex and even removing flirting from social media. Some sex addicts may need to seek help in an inpatient treatment center, where they’ll be removed from triggers. Eventually, the goal is to replace these behaviors with healthy coping mechanisms such as exercising (to boost endorphins) and mindfulness or acceptance and commitment therapy.

People with sex addiction often have psychological issues to deal with, such as early trauma. This might mean facing shame or dealing with feelings of guilt. In addition, some sex addicts struggle with their sexual identity. This can be helped with therapy that focuses on identity work and family systems.

To recover from sex addiction, it’s necessary to admit there is a problem. This can be a difficult step, as many people don’t want to believe they have a problem. It’s also important to be honest with loved ones and to stop the addictive behaviour. It’s also a good idea to seek help from a mental healthcare professional who specializes in sex addiction or impulse control disorders.