By Floyd Godfrey, PhD

As a mental health professional specializing in sexual addiction, I have had the privilege of walking with many clients through the challenging journey of recovery. One of the most difficult phases for those overcoming sexual addiction is the initial withdrawal period. Often overlooked or misunderstood, withdrawal from sexual addiction presents both physical and psychological symptoms that can mirror other types of addiction, making it a critical aspect to address in treatment.

Withdrawal from sexual addiction is a real and painful experience. Many individuals assume that since sexual behavior does not involve the ingestion of substances like drugs or alcohol, there is no physical component to withdrawal. However, that assumption is far from the truth. In my practice, I have observed that clients experience a wide range of symptoms during the early weeks of recovery. Patrick Carnes (2015) highlights this in his comprehensive work on sexual addiction, noting that, “In a hospital study, we found there are fifteen symptoms addicts readily identify as characteristic of the early weeks of recovery: fatigue, tenseness/nervousness, insomnia, headaches, shakes, high sexual arousal, low sexual arousal, body aches, increased food appetite, genital sensitivity, itchy skin, chills/sweats, nausea, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath” (p. 228).

These symptoms can be unsettling for individuals who may not have anticipated such a severe physical reaction to abstaining from their compulsive behaviors. In my experience, many clients are caught off guard, often feeling discouraged and questioning whether recovery is worth the discomfort. It is during this phase that compassionate support and consistent therapeutic interventions become crucial. Educating clients about the nature of withdrawal helps them understand that what they are experiencing is a normal part of the process.

I have found that the length and intensity of withdrawal symptoms can vary significantly from one individual to the next. While the physical symptoms usually diminish after a few weeks, for some, the process can take longer. Carnes (2015) notes, “Usually, physical reactions last fourteen to fifteen days, but for some people, they may last for as long as eight to ten weeks” (p. 228). This variation is often influenced by the individual’s history of addiction, the duration and intensity of their addictive behaviors, and their overall emotional and physical health.

In addition to physical symptoms, emotional and psychological withdrawal plays a significant role. Clients often experience heightened anxiety, irritability, and feelings of shame or guilt during the early stages of recovery. This emotional discomfort can drive the urge to relapse, which is why therapeutic strategies are essential in guiding individuals through these moments of vulnerability. One approach I frequently employ is mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), which helps clients stay present with their discomfort without being overwhelmed by it. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is another effective tool, assisting clients in recognizing and reframing the thoughts that lead to unhealthy behaviors.

Withdrawal from sexual addiction is not a quick or easy process, but with the right support, it is entirely manageable. Recovery begins with understanding that withdrawal is a natural step in the healing journey. Through education, empathy, and structured interventions, clients can successfully navigate this phase and move toward lasting freedom from compulsive sexual behaviors.

Floyd Godfrey, PhD is a Clinical Sexologist and a Certified Sex Addiction Specialist. He has been guiding clients since 2000 and currently speaks and provides consulting and mental health coaching across the globe. To learn more about Floyd Godfrey, PhD please visit his website: www.FloydGodfrey.com.

References

Carnes, P. (2015). Facing the Shadow: Starting Sexual and Relationship Recovery (3rd ed.). Gentle Path Press.