Understanding
Sex & Pornography Addiction
Understanding compulsive sexual behaviours and their impact on mental health and relationships
Understanding
Sex & Pornography Addiction
Understanding compulsive sexual behaviours and their impact on mental health and relationships
Understanding
Sex & Pornography Addiction
Understanding compulsive sexual behaviours and their impact on mental health and relationships
What does sex & pornography addiction feel like?
Living with sex and pornography addiction means experiencing a loss of control over sexual behaviours that continues despite negative consequences to relationships, work, or personal wellbeing. The compulsive nature creates a cycle where temporary relief or pleasure is followed by shame, guilt, and promises to stop, only to find yourself engaging in the same behaviours again. This pattern often escalates over time, requiring more extreme content or risky behaviours to achieve the same satisfaction, whilst creating increasing isolation from genuine intimacy.
The experience involves feeling trapped between intense urges and the knowledge that these behaviours are damaging important areas of life. Many people describe feeling like they're leading a double life, managing shame and secrecy whilst struggling with intrusive thoughts and compulsions that interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and self-respect.
Common Symptoms
Inability to control sexual thoughts or behaviours despite consequences
Escalating use of pornography or engaging in risky sexual behaviours
Significant time spent on sexual activities interfering with responsibilities
Continued behaviour despite relationship problems or personal distress
Feelings of shame, guilt, or depression following sexual activities
Secrecy and lying about sexual behaviours to partners or family
Failed attempts to reduce or stop sexual behaviours
What does sex & pornography addiction feel like?
Living with sex and pornography addiction means experiencing a loss of control over sexual behaviours that continues despite negative consequences to relationships, work, or personal wellbeing. The compulsive nature creates a cycle where temporary relief or pleasure is followed by shame, guilt, and promises to stop, only to find yourself engaging in the same behaviours again. This pattern often escalates over time, requiring more extreme content or risky behaviours to achieve the same satisfaction, whilst creating increasing isolation from genuine intimacy.
The experience involves feeling trapped between intense urges and the knowledge that these behaviours are damaging important areas of life. Many people describe feeling like they're leading a double life, managing shame and secrecy whilst struggling with intrusive thoughts and compulsions that interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and self-respect.
Common Symptoms
Inability to control sexual thoughts or behaviours despite consequences
Escalating use of pornography or engaging in risky sexual behaviours
Significant time spent on sexual activities interfering with responsibilities
Continued behaviour despite relationship problems or personal distress
Feelings of shame, guilt, or depression following sexual activities
Secrecy and lying about sexual behaviours to partners or family
Failed attempts to reduce or stop sexual behaviours
What does sex & pornography addiction feel like?
Living with sex and pornography addiction means experiencing a loss of control over sexual behaviours that continues despite negative consequences to relationships, work, or personal wellbeing. The compulsive nature creates a cycle where temporary relief or pleasure is followed by shame, guilt, and promises to stop, only to find yourself engaging in the same behaviours again. This pattern often escalates over time, requiring more extreme content or risky behaviours to achieve the same satisfaction, whilst creating increasing isolation from genuine intimacy.
The experience involves feeling trapped between intense urges and the knowledge that these behaviours are damaging important areas of life. Many people describe feeling like they're leading a double life, managing shame and secrecy whilst struggling with intrusive thoughts and compulsions that interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and self-respect.
Common Symptoms
Inability to control sexual thoughts or behaviours despite consequences
Escalating use of pornography or engaging in risky sexual behaviours
Significant time spent on sexual activities interfering with responsibilities
Continued behaviour despite relationship problems or personal distress
Feelings of shame, guilt, or depression following sexual activities
Secrecy and lying about sexual behaviours to partners or family
Failed attempts to reduce or stop sexual behaviours
History of Sex & Pornography Addiction
From moral failing to recognised behavioural addiction requiring treatment
1980s
Early research begins examining compulsive sexual behaviour, with professionals debating whether sexual addiction follows similar patterns to substance addictions
1990s-2000s
Development of therapeutic approaches for sexual addiction, with increased recognition of the role of trauma, shame, and underlying mental health issues in compulsive sexual behaviours
2010s
Digital age creates unprecedented access to pornography, leading to increased research into internet-based sexual addiction and its neurobiological effects on the brain
Present
Modern understanding recognises sex and pornography addiction as serious behavioural addictions, with evidence-based treatments combining therapy, support groups, and sometimes medication for underlying conditions
History of Sex & Pornography Addiction
From moral failing to recognised behavioural addiction requiring treatment
1980s
Early research begins examining compulsive sexual behaviour, with professionals debating whether sexual addiction follows similar patterns to substance addictions
1990s-2000s
Development of therapeutic approaches for sexual addiction, with increased recognition of the role of trauma, shame, and underlying mental health issues in compulsive sexual behaviours
2010s
Digital age creates unprecedented access to pornography, leading to increased research into internet-based sexual addiction and its neurobiological effects on the brain
Present
Modern understanding recognises sex and pornography addiction as serious behavioural addictions, with evidence-based treatments combining therapy, support groups, and sometimes medication for underlying conditions
History of Sex & Pornography Addiction
From moral failing to recognised behavioural addiction requiring treatment
1980s
Early research begins examining compulsive sexual behaviour, with professionals debating whether sexual addiction follows similar patterns to substance addictions
1990s-2000s
Development of therapeutic approaches for sexual addiction, with increased recognition of the role of trauma, shame, and underlying mental health issues in compulsive sexual behaviours
2010s
Digital age creates unprecedented access to pornography, leading to increased research into internet-based sexual addiction and its neurobiological effects on the brain
Present
Modern understanding recognises sex and pornography addiction as serious behavioural addictions, with evidence-based treatments combining therapy, support groups, and sometimes medication for underlying conditions
Take our free self-test
Take our free self-test
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
How therapy can help
Therapy for sex and pornography addiction uses specialised approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma-informed treatment to address underlying triggers and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Treatment focuses on understanding the function these behaviours serve, often addressing underlying shame, trauma, or mental health conditions whilst developing practical strategies for managing urges and building genuine intimacy. Many therapists incorporate elements of addiction treatment, helping individuals develop relapse prevention plans and healthy boundaries.
Treatment emphasises healing shame, developing emotional regulation skills, and rebuilding trust in relationships affected by addictive behaviours. Many people find significant improvement within months of beginning specialised therapy, particularly when combined with support groups and a commitment to transparency and accountability in their recovery process.
Benefits of Therapy
Understanding triggers and underlying emotional needs
Developing healthy coping strategies for stress and difficult emotions
Building genuine intimacy and communication skills
Addressing underlying trauma or mental health conditions
Creating accountability systems and relapse prevention plans
Healing shame and developing self-compassion
Rebuilding trust and repairing damaged relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding sexual addiction and the path to recovery
Is sex and pornography addiction a real addiction?
Yes, research shows that compulsive sexual behaviours activate similar brain pathways as substance addictions, involving tolerance, withdrawal-like symptoms, and loss of control. While not yet included in all diagnostic manuals, many mental health professionals recognise these patterns as genuine behavioural addictions requiring specialised treatment.
How do I know if my behaviour has crossed into addiction?
Key indicators include inability to stop despite wanting to, continued behaviour despite negative consequences to relationships or work, escalating use or risk-taking, using sexual behaviour as primary stress relief, and significant time spent on sexual activities interfering with responsibilities or relationships.
Can relationships recover from sexual addiction?
Many relationships can heal with proper treatment and commitment from both partners. Recovery typically requires the addicted partner to engage in therapy and maintain transparency, whilst the other partner may benefit from their own support to process betrayal trauma. Couples therapy can be crucial for rebuilding trust and intimacy.
What about pornography addiction specifically - is it different?
Pornography addiction shares many features with other sexual addictions but may involve specific issues like unrealistic expectations about sex, difficulty with arousal in real relationships, and problems with intimacy. Treatment addresses both the compulsive use patterns and the impact on sexual and relationship functioning.
How therapy can help
Therapy for sex and pornography addiction uses specialised approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma-informed treatment to address underlying triggers and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Treatment focuses on understanding the function these behaviours serve, often addressing underlying shame, trauma, or mental health conditions whilst developing practical strategies for managing urges and building genuine intimacy. Many therapists incorporate elements of addiction treatment, helping individuals develop relapse prevention plans and healthy boundaries.
Treatment emphasises healing shame, developing emotional regulation skills, and rebuilding trust in relationships affected by addictive behaviours. Many people find significant improvement within months of beginning specialised therapy, particularly when combined with support groups and a commitment to transparency and accountability in their recovery process.
Benefits of Therapy
Understanding triggers and underlying emotional needs
Developing healthy coping strategies for stress and difficult emotions
Building genuine intimacy and communication skills
Addressing underlying trauma or mental health conditions
Creating accountability systems and relapse prevention plans
Healing shame and developing self-compassion
Rebuilding trust and repairing damaged relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding sexual addiction and the path to recovery
Is sex and pornography addiction a real addiction?
Yes, research shows that compulsive sexual behaviours activate similar brain pathways as substance addictions, involving tolerance, withdrawal-like symptoms, and loss of control. While not yet included in all diagnostic manuals, many mental health professionals recognise these patterns as genuine behavioural addictions requiring specialised treatment.
How do I know if my behaviour has crossed into addiction?
Key indicators include inability to stop despite wanting to, continued behaviour despite negative consequences to relationships or work, escalating use or risk-taking, using sexual behaviour as primary stress relief, and significant time spent on sexual activities interfering with responsibilities or relationships.
Can relationships recover from sexual addiction?
Many relationships can heal with proper treatment and commitment from both partners. Recovery typically requires the addicted partner to engage in therapy and maintain transparency, whilst the other partner may benefit from their own support to process betrayal trauma. Couples therapy can be crucial for rebuilding trust and intimacy.
What about pornography addiction specifically - is it different?
Pornography addiction shares many features with other sexual addictions but may involve specific issues like unrealistic expectations about sex, difficulty with arousal in real relationships, and problems with intimacy. Treatment addresses both the compulsive use patterns and the impact on sexual and relationship functioning.
How therapy can help
Therapy for sex and pornography addiction uses specialised approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma-informed treatment to address underlying triggers and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Treatment focuses on understanding the function these behaviours serve, often addressing underlying shame, trauma, or mental health conditions whilst developing practical strategies for managing urges and building genuine intimacy. Many therapists incorporate elements of addiction treatment, helping individuals develop relapse prevention plans and healthy boundaries.
Treatment emphasises healing shame, developing emotional regulation skills, and rebuilding trust in relationships affected by addictive behaviours. Many people find significant improvement within months of beginning specialised therapy, particularly when combined with support groups and a commitment to transparency and accountability in their recovery process.
Benefits of Therapy
Understanding triggers and underlying emotional needs
Developing healthy coping strategies for stress and difficult emotions
Building genuine intimacy and communication skills
Addressing underlying trauma or mental health conditions
Creating accountability systems and relapse prevention plans
Healing shame and developing self-compassion
Rebuilding trust and repairing damaged relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding sexual addiction and the path to recovery
Is sex and pornography addiction a real addiction?
Yes, research shows that compulsive sexual behaviours activate similar brain pathways as substance addictions, involving tolerance, withdrawal-like symptoms, and loss of control. While not yet included in all diagnostic manuals, many mental health professionals recognise these patterns as genuine behavioural addictions requiring specialised treatment.
How do I know if my behaviour has crossed into addiction?
Key indicators include inability to stop despite wanting to, continued behaviour despite negative consequences to relationships or work, escalating use or risk-taking, using sexual behaviour as primary stress relief, and significant time spent on sexual activities interfering with responsibilities or relationships.
Can relationships recover from sexual addiction?
Many relationships can heal with proper treatment and commitment from both partners. Recovery typically requires the addicted partner to engage in therapy and maintain transparency, whilst the other partner may benefit from their own support to process betrayal trauma. Couples therapy can be crucial for rebuilding trust and intimacy.
What about pornography addiction specifically - is it different?
Pornography addiction shares many features with other sexual addictions but may involve specific issues like unrealistic expectations about sex, difficulty with arousal in real relationships, and problems with intimacy. Treatment addresses both the compulsive use patterns and the impact on sexual and relationship functioning.
Meet our Therapists
Meet our Therapists
Meet our specialists who can help guide your recovery
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
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Adults (18+)
Introducing Andrea Szentgyorgyi, a UKCP-registered integrative psychotherapist with over 1,000 clinical hours. Andrea combines person-centred, solution-focused therapy with advanced techniques including hypnotherapy and EMDR, creating a tailored and flexible approach for each client. With 6 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space to explore challenges and promote lasting emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)