Am I a sex addict at 32 years old, or am I just seeking validation?
I'm not sure where to begin, but I'm currently in a long-term relationship that I consider pretty solid—we're both happy and have no major issues. I believe I’m an attractive guy; I notice women looking my way, and I stay active, run my own business, and own a nice house. Some women even make it clear that they’d like me to approach them, whether at work or the gym. Occasionally, they’ll ask if I’m single, and I always tell them that I have a girlfriend. Sometimes, though, I catch myself wanting to fall back into old habits, like visiting massage parlors or hiring escorts. While the physical pleasure is one aspect, I think it’s more about the thrill of their reaction when they see me aroused. I consider myself well-endowed, and I enjoy seeing how they respond. The experience feels like a challenge to me—watching someone take me fully has an appeal, especially when there's a contrast in comfort levels. I wonder if this is problematic. In past relationships, I often felt indifferent about them ending, thinking I could always revert to this "hobby" of paying for encounters. There are even communities out there that normalize this behavior. I love my partner, and this is a secret I plan to keep because I feel a certain shame about using services from women in those industries. Yet, the excitement I get from these encounters and the anticipation of the next one is addictive, though it can become expensive, and there are health risks involved. When the moment comes, it feels almost irresistible. This might be a contentious issue, but I wonder if this would be considered cheating while I'm in a relationship. The sex I have with my partner is great, but I can’t help but think that professional providers might offer something different due to their experience. I often daydream about those past experiences, even though I’ve resisted acting on these thoughts because the guilt would be overwhelming. There’s no emotional connection with these women; I pay for their time, and often I won't see them again since there are so many available. I’m contemplating speaking to a therapist. I hope to unpack my thoughts and feelings around this situation, hoping for some clarity on why I seem to be stuck in this mindset.