Sexual addiction can be fueled by sexual fantasies that are a replacement for real life interaction. Sex addicts spend an unfortunate amount of time in their heads, avoiding life. Sex addicts can be ahead of a moment in time or behind the moment. They are often not in the moment. Not in the here and now.
Sexual addiction can be progressive in nature.
Sometimes the sex addict wants more and more sexual involvement. Because of their shame and fear about being found out, the sex addict might keep their behaviors secret. This kind of secret keeping creates shame and depression. Recovery requires that an individual have a thought out plan of action. Recovery is about breaking the secrecy and isolation.