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One of the biggest challenges we face as humans is breaking a behaviour. When you have a pattern that creates negative consequences in your life, you may need help.

What is sex addiction?

Sex addiction is a condition where a person experiences compulsive sexual urges. This can include preoccupation with sexual intercourse, masturbation, pornography, infidelity and sexual contact via chat and video. Sex addiction can occur in combination with pornography addiction.

This addiction is similar to other addictions where you compulsively pursue emotional relief in a way that causes problems in your life and have been unsuccessful at stopping this behaviour.

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Is sex addiction a diagnosis?

Sex addiction is not an official diagnosis according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). You will hear the term “hypersexuality” used often in mental health, which refers to excessive sexual behaviours with compulsions to perform sexual acts. This also includes obsessive thoughts about sex, sexual habits that are problematic, and feelings of loss of control.

Even though sex addiction is not yet a diagnosable condition, there is help available for people experiencing compulsive sexual urges.

What causes sex addiction?

It is not clearly understood what causes sex addiction. Many things influence addiction, including genetics, environment and social factors. Addiction in general is a disease where the brain’s reward system is affected by dopamine and serotonin. In sex addiction, changes in stress levels and the hormone oxytocin have also been observed.

Sometimes neuropsychiatric, personality and mood disorders affecting impulse control can influence this behaviour. People may also develop an addiction related to attempts to alleviate other mental health concerns such as anxiety, stress or depression. It is important to seek help and support if you are experiencing signs of sex addiction.


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ADHD and sex addiction

Individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may be at increased risk for developing addiction, including sex addiction. ADHD can affect impulse control, leading to various impulsive behaviours. It is possible to treat both ADHD and the symptoms of sex addiction, so if you or someone you love is showing symptoms of sex addiction, help is out there.

Consequences of Sex Addiction

A consequence of sex addiction could involve acting out impulsively in relationships with people who are not your partner. This can cause a lot of distress for all parties and affect trust in the relationship, which can take a long time to repair. It is also important that family members receive support and help.

Help for sex addiction

If you wonder whether you have a sex addiction or are at risk of developing one, it is important to seek help. Otherwise, problems can develop or worsen over time.

Symptoms of sex addiction

Common characteristics of hypersexuality and sex addiction include:

  1. Discomfort or inability to control sexual behaviour: You may have difficulty controlling your sexual impulses and behaviours. This in turn can lead to a pattern of compulsive sexual behaviour.
  2. Neglect of everyday activities: Sex addiction can lead to neglecting work, relationships and other responsibilities.
  3. Increased sexual behaviours despite negative consequences: You may continue to act compulsively despite experiencing consequences of your sexual behaviour.
  4. Constantly thinking about sex: You may find yourself constantly thinking about sex, which can affect your concentration and focus in other areas of life.
  5. Engaging in risky behaviours: People with sex addiction may seek out increasingly risky and dangerous sexual behaviours to achieve the same level of excitement or satisfaction.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek help.

Treatment for sex addiction

It is possible to get help if you are experiencing symptoms of sex addiction. There are psychologists and therapists who specialize in sexual concerns. Treatment may involve a combination of interventions, support groups and other therapeutic strategies to address the underlying causes of the addiction. They can also help you develop healthier patterns of sexual behaviour. It is possible to create a better quality of life. There is also some research showing that medication such as Naltrexone, which is currently used to treat alcohol use disorder, can be helpful for hypersexuality.

Treatment with CBT

It is possible to get therapy for sex addiction online. At Lavendla we have licensed psychologists and CBT therapists who can help you with treatment.

From conversation to understanding and change

Talk therapy is often the first step in seeking help. By working with a psychologist or therapist, you can begin to understand your symptoms and triggers, which is essential for long-term change.

When professional help is unavoidable

If your substance use or a certain activity is beginning to affect your work and personal life, seeking professional help is essential. It is never too late to break free from addiction. Help is available and support is just a click away. So if you or someone you love is struggling with these issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. For information about addiction services and facilities near you, call 211.


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12 common questions and answers about sex addiction

What is sex addiction?

Sex addiction is a complex psychological condition in which the individual feels an inability to stop acting on sexual urges, despite negative consequences.

Is sex addiction a disease?

Sex addiction is not formally recognized as a specific diagnosis in the major diagnostic manuals, but this does not mean that it is not a problem behaviour.

Can sex addiction be cured?

Any type of addiction can be treated, but it often requires long-term care and support. It is possible to change your patterns and improve your quality of life.

What are the signs that I may be experiencing sex addiction?

Symptoms include compulsions to perform sexual acts, obsessive thoughts about sex, loss of control and engaging in problematic sexual habits.

What are the risks of sex addiction?

The potential risks range from problems with our physical and mental health, unemployment and loss of relationships.

How can I help a family member who is experiencing sex addiction?

The first step is to offer your support. Encourage them to seek professional help and stand by them during treatment. Seek out more information about sex addiction, and if you are a partner, consider accessing mental health supports for yourself.

What treatment options are available?

There are several different types of treatment such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and support groups.

Can you have other mental health problems while experiencing sex addiction?

Sex addiction can co-occur with other mental health concerns such as bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and ADHD.

What can be done in case of relapse?

Relapse can happen and it is important to seek help immediately. Relapse is not a sign of failure but it is important to act quickly to get back on track.

What resources are available?

In addition to our professional therapists and psychologists, there are many websites, books, and support groups that can offer additional information and support. Sex Addicts Anonymous (https://saa-recovery.org/) offers in-person and virtual meetings throughout Canada.

Can I be treated online?

Yes, our therapists and psychologists offer support sessions via video conferencing.

How important is the support system around a person with an addiction?

A support system is often crucial to successful recovery. This includes professional help with treatment and a good support system both emotionally and practically. It can help reduce the risk of relapse and help the person maintain a healthier lifestyle.

Treatment steps to improve quality of life

Treatment for a sex addiction or hypersexuality differs from person to person although they often follow a similar format. To give you an understanding of what professional help to break a destructive behaviour might look like, we have listed examples of the different phases.

1. Evaluation and diagnosis

The first step is often a thorough evaluation by a licensed psychologist or qualified therapist.

2. Treatment planning

You and your therapist create a treatment plan, which often includes different treatment methods such as psychotherapy, drug treatment and sometimes even self-help groups.

3. Psychotherapeutic treatment

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the most commonly recommended method. It involves working with the thoughts, feelings and behaviours associated with sex addiction. Relapse prevention is also usually part of the treatment. It may also include motivational interviewing.

4. Follow-up and Maintenance

Long-term treatment and follow-up are often necessary to prevent relapse. This may include regular meetings with healthcare providers and continued participation in support groups.

5. Lifestyle changes

Changes in lifestyle, including work, leisure and relationships, are often necessary to support long-term recovery.

The first step to change

Book a 20- or 45-minute session with a qualified coach, therapist, or psychologist today via our website booking form. If now isn’t the right time, remember that there is always an opportunity to come back when you are ready to make a change. Together we make the difficult easier.


Written by Sophia Coulter

Sophia is a registered nurse with experience in inpatient, emergency and community mental health care. She has a passion for providing emergency support for those experiencing mental health crises.