In an unpredicted slant, the emergence of Dominique Strauss-Kahn last year has prompted more people in France to come forward and seek help for sexual addiction, says a recent post on Time.com.

Addiction treatment centers and psychological treatment centers are busier than ever in France, assisting patients with sexual addiction who have not previously addressed the complex and consuming condition. Comments suggest that some men in France felt that the accusations against Strauss-Kahn were almost a wake-up call to their own behaviors. Some reportedly say that they believed Strauss-Kahn may exhibit some similar psychological patterns and actions as they do, further prompting them to stop ignoring the problem.

The story of Strauss-Kahn and an alleged forced sexual encounter with a hotel worker have also created a more widespread dialogue in France about the nature of sexual addiction and moved the problem into the arena of other legitimate addictions. Psychologists have said there’s been a noticeable increase in public knowledge of the problem, but the number of people with sexual addictions hasn’t actually increased.

Several behavioral patterns set sexual addiction apart from other problematic behaviors:

1. The inability to stop the behavior, such as sex with multiple partners or Internet pornography viewing, even when the consequences become dire
2. Obsessive, consuming thoughts about sexual activities that become increasingly bizarre or interrupt daily functioning
3. Losing control over cravings or urges for sexual activity as a response to facing a negative situation or coping with stress
4. Strong feelings of guilt, shame or anger following sexually compulsive behaviors

Treatment centers and programs for sexual addiction are increasing in numbers across the globe. With professional guidance, recovery from sexual addiction is possible and many people will experience a return to their quality of life.