Talk To A Licensed Therapist About Sex Addiction: Causes, Signs, And Support

Have you ever wondered if excessive interest in sex could be an addiction? Sex addiction can be difficult to talk about, especially when people use dismissive terms like “sex addict.” Despite any apprehension one has in discussing the subject, opening a dialogue can be helpful in supporting those who experience it. Understanding the possible causes and signs some has a sex addiction, as well as the experiences of those who live with this condition, can result in a more empathetic society and a greater degree of validation for those in their healing process. 

Read on to learn more about the possible causes, signs and supportive strategies for those living with sex addiction.

What is sex addiction?

Sex addiction is currently defined as a psychological condition in which individuals engage in frequent, uncontrollable sexual behavior, or individuals who experience preoccupation with certain sexual acts or behaviors. It is considered by many to be an impulse-control disorder similar to compulsive gambling or substance addiction (sometimes incorrectly referred to as “substance abuse.”) These uncontrollable sexual impulses can significantly impact one’s life, potentially creating feelings of deep shame, guilt, and physical and emotional distress as a result. However, these feelings can be helped with therapy and other supportive strategies. 

Hypersexuality is considered one of the defining symptoms of sex addiction. For example: One may be preoccupied with sexual urges and fantasies that interfere with daily life — such as compulsive masturbation. It can also include engaging in risky activities such as unprotected sex or visiting strip clubs or pornographic websites in an all-consuming, unmoderated way.

Potential causes of sex addiction

At the time of this publication, there is no singular cause of sex addiction that has been identified. However, experts currently believe that a combination of biological, psychological and social factors can contribute to its formation. 

Studies have suggested that some brain regions are active when people engage in addictive behaviors such as gambling and drug use — and it’s possible that the same could be true for those living with sex addiction. 

Additionally, the environment someone grows up in may play a role in developing this disorder. For example: People who were sexually abused as children or child molestation may be more likely to develop an addiction to sex or hypersexuality later in life.* 

Sex addiction may also exist alongside other disorders, like substance use disorder. Someone who is misusing alcohol (or someone who may “abuse alcohol,” an outdated way of referencing misuse) can have lower inhibitions and therefore be less able to control their sexual urges. They also may use alcohol misuse (sometimes incorrectly referred to as “alcohol abuse”) to help cope with the feelings of shame that can surround sex addiction. 

*We do want to note: Everyone’s experience is entirely unique. This statement does not represent the experience of all childhood sexual abuse survivors. Rather, it is summarizing findings and correlations between childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and compulsive sexual behavior that can occur in adulthood. 

Symptoms of sex addiction

While the experience of sex addiction is unique to the individual experiencing it, there are certain symptoms that can help identify the disorder. These can include:

• Feeling preoccupied with thoughts about sex
• Frequently engaging in unsafe or “risky” sexual activities or committing sexual offenses 
• Feeling unable to control one's behavior or sexual thoughts
• Neglecting personal relationships due to excessive amounts of time spent engaging in sexual activities
• Feeling ashamed or guilty after engaging in sexual activity
• Experiencing financial difficulties due to excessive spending on pornography or other sexually related activities 
• Experiencing physical repercussions such as sexually transmitted diseases or injuries due to risky behavior associated with sex addiction. 

Validated research needed for sex addiction

Currently, sex addiction is not explicitly mentioned in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) or the International Classification of Diseases 10 (ICD10).One of the possible causes behind its lack of inclusion as a mental illness is that empirical research in this area is generally lacking compared to other mental health conditions. At the time of this publication, there have been no validated nationally representative prevalence surveys. Like Internet Gaming Disorder, which is currently included in the DSM-5 appendix, sex addiction might not be added until considerable information on the defining features, reliability and validity of the criteria and prevalence rates worldwide are acquired. 

How the internet has contributed to sex addiction 

In the past few decades, sex addiction has become increasingly prevalent in society. Mayo Clinic estimates that over 24 million Americans are affected by some form of sexual addiction, and current research suggests that the internet has significantly impacted those experiencing this problem. 

People can easily hide their identity while obtaining sexually explicit content or interacting with others online. There is also a prevalence of parasocial and unhealthy relationships and sexual encounters that are readily available, which may satiate those with more niche interests.

Additionally, social media platforms can allow users to create unnamed profiles to engage in activities such as sexting or viewing pornographic material without fear of judgment or repercussions. This can provide an escape for people who are living with sexual addictions, potentially making them feel safer when exploring their desires and obsessive sexual thoughts. 

Ease of availability 

Another reason people may use the internet when experiencing sex addiction is that it’s simple to obtain sexually explicit content at any time. With an internet connection and a device such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet, one can acquire an almost limitless amount of pornography within seconds. This ease of availability can make it difficult for someone living with sex addiction to resist engaging in this behavior in their personal lives. 

The normalization of sexually explicit content 

Lastly, another factor that may contribute to sex addiction is the greater degree of acceptance and normalization of sexually explicit content, which many believe has changed considerably compared to the experience and expectations from years past. 

Many people may view pornography as no different than watching any other type of television show or movie, which can make it easier for people with sex addiction to rationalize the compulsion — or to continue engaging in activities such as viewing pornographic images or videos. 

Experiencing sex addiction symptoms?

Speak with a licensed therapist

Effectiveness of online therapy for sex addiction

For many, the stigma associated with sex addiction may contribute to feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable seeking help in person. Many will avoid seeking support so as not to be labeled by family or friends as “sex addicts.”  Fortunately, there is an alternative that may be more suitable for some living with the condition — online therapy. 

Online therapy can allow people to receive the help they need in the comfort of their own homes and can offer the support needed to begin their path to recovery.

Another main advantage of online therapy is the unknownness. You generally don't have to worry about anyone seeing you enter the office of a “sex therapist”, or being seen by someone you know when attending an appointment. This can be beneficial for those who are embarrassed or ashamed about their condition and want to be discrete. Additionally, many people may find it easier to open up over video chat than face-to-face, which can help them make progress more quickly in their treatment plan. 

Online therapy for sex addiction might also provide opportunities for those who live in remote areas or have limited reach to mental health professionals due to financial constraints or lack of availability. It can also help with a wide range of challenges, with some online options offering family therapy and marriage counseling. 

Benefits of online therapy for sex addiction

Current research suggests that online therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are just as effective for treating sex addiction as traditional treatments — such as individual counseling and group therapy — potentially due to the convenience and availability factors mentioned above. 

CBT is one of the most widely used forms of treatment for sex addiction in general, likely due to its effectiveness in helping individuals identify and manage their triggers. This can enable them to break free from destructive patterns and make long-term behavioral changes. Online therapy programs can also successfully reduce symptoms associated with sex addiction, such as compulsive sexual behaviors, clinical depression, anxiety, and shame, potentially offering alternative coping mechanisms and support to help the person living with sex addiction to experience a higher quality of life.