While sexual desire is a natural component of the human psyche, uncontrollable sexual impulses can have a profound negative impact. In this case, these excessive impulses could constitute a sex addiction.
Whether the condition is a compulsion or addiction is up for debate. Nonetheless, for some people at least, the negative impacts — both emotional and social—that arise from uncontrollable sexual urges are difficult to deny.
In this article, we’ll examine the definition, causes, symptoms, and treatments for sex addiction. That way, you’ll have a better understanding of the affliction and can obtain the necessary resources to confront this controversial condition.
Sex Addiction: Definitions, Symptoms, & Side Effects
Do you (or a loved one) have a bonafide sex addiction, or just enjoy sleeping around? The lines between addiction and promiscuity are blurred, and the condition itself is difficult to define.
Let’s start by delving into the definitions, signs, and symptoms of a sex addiction so we can demystify this taboo topic.
What Is Sex Addiction?
Sex addiction is a somewhat controversial concept in the psychology sector. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) does not recognize the condition as a clinical diagnosis in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). As the go-to mental health manual for psychiatrists around the nation, the DSM is the most authoritative document on addiction to date.
However, the DSM does accept diagnosis of sex addiction as a “specified sexual dysfunction.” Furthermore, the World Health Organization’s International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10) recognizes sex addiction as a “sexual dysfunction not due to a substance or known physiological condition.”
Although mental health professionals disagree as to whether the condition is a dysfunction or addiction, evidence suggests sex addiction can have a tangible negative impact on a person’s everyday life.
Why Is Sex Addictive?
One of the reasons why sex addiction is so controversial is that the act itself is entirely normal and natural. The human brain is hardwired to enjoy sex, and the associated cravings are crucial to our survival. If sex wasn’t desirable and enjoyable, we would have less incentive to reproduce and our species would inevitably die out. Sex is an essential evolutionary mechanism.
However, psychiatrists who argue in favor of sex addiction believe some people have an inherent disposition to crave or engage in sexual acts in excess. These people may derive more pleasure from sex than others, and have greater difficulty in casting cravings aside.
What Are the Causes of Sex Addiction?
There’s no universal agreement among experts as to what causes sex addiction.
Some research suggests biochemical anomalies in the temporal/frontal lobe of the brain may overregulate the libido. These physiological conditions can be inherited or obtained. Some people who have suffered an injury to this portion of the brain have been found to be at an increased risk of engaging in inappropriate sexual behavior.
Other theories suggest sex addiction is an impulsive condition, which can be underpinned by obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and/or relational disorder. Some people have successfully used treatment for OCD to manage their sex addiction.
Sex addiction may also arise as a coping mechanism to manage the emotional trauma associated with childhood sexual assault.
Statistical Overview
A 2014 review found that hypersexuality disorder—the closest clinically accepted condition to sex addiction—affects somewhere between 3 and 6% of the population.
A separate study concluded that around 80% of those afflicted are male.
History of Sex Addiction
The concept of sex as an addiction first emerged in the 1970s, when Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) sought to adapt its 12-Step program to address the condition. The program aimed to curb infidelity and harmful compulsive sexual behavior using similar addiction-breaking methodologies used to treat alcoholics.
Sex addiction received mainstream media attention in 2010 when world champion golfer Tiger Woods booked himself into an in-patient rehabilitation clinic to treat the condition. Some pundits argued he was merely making excuses for his infidelities, while others believed he suffered from a genuine addiction that required medical intervention.
Side Effects & Negative Consequences
On the whole, safe sexual intercourse doesn’t entail any significant physiological consequences. Aside from some minor issues with soreness and chaffing, both of which tend to heal quickly without medical intervention, sex doesn’t cause long-lasting physical harm.
Some exceptions exist, such as extreme fetishes like bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, sadism and masochism (BDSM). However, these sexual behaviors aren’t necessarily associated with a sex addiction.
Another potential danger are sexually transmitted diseases (STD). When the sex addict neglects to use protection—perhaps to enhance sexual gratification—they put themselves at greater risk of contracting an STD. As the sex addict often seeks out multiple partners, the risk increases exponentially.
However, the most prominent and damaging negative consequences associated with sex addiction pertain its social and psychological harms.
The sex addict may engage in increasingly risky behavior to satisfy their sexual needs, seeking out multiple partners or performing sex acts in inappropriate public places. An addict might willingly compromise a committed relationship to relieve their sexual cravings, potentially destroying a marriage and breaking up a family.
Sex addiction can also result in reduced self-esteem, especially among women who may feel ashamed of their promiscuity. Outdated cultural norms pressure women to abstain from engaging in sexual acts with multiple partners, and the inability to control sexual urges can lead to a strong sense of guilt.
For many sufferers, both men and women, sexual activity provides short-term pleasure at the expense of long-term harm—and that can become a vicious cycle. The addict engages in sex to obtain instant gratification, even though it lowers their self-esteem overall. Negative emotions associated with decreased self-worth prompts the addict to engage in more sexual activities as a coping mechanism.
Money, or lack thereof, can be another serious consequence of a sex addiction. If the addict frequently obtains the services of a prostitute, they may find themselves thrust into a dire financial situation. Web cam and pornography subscriptions can also have a negative financial impact, albeit usually to a lesser extent.
Warning Signs & Symptoms of Addiction
If you’re worried you or someone close to you may be suffering from a sex addiction, keep an eye out for the following warning signs:
- Sex is a dominant feature in life; other activities are neglected in favor of obtaining frequent sexual liaisons with multiple partners.
- Constant and unmanageable sexual cravings interfere with the ability to lead a normal a life.
- Severe feelings of shame, regret, guilt, or anxiety that arise from engaging in frequent sexual acts, typically with multiple partners.
- Risky or taboo sexual acts, including public sex, exhibitionism, and unprotected intercourse.
- Spending large sums of money on sexual services, including web cam subscriptions, prostitutes, strip clubs, and pornography
- The inability to control sexual urges, even when they lead to extramarital affairs.
- Habitual masturbation or problematic pornography use—these may also be indicative of a porn addiction.
If a person experiences one or more of these symptoms, they may be suffering from a sex addiction. However, it’s crucial to remember sex is a naturally desirable act, and that any of these symptoms on their own don’t necessarily constitute an addiction.
It’s always wise to seek a professional assessment rather than a self-diagnosis. Psychiatric intervention and/or counseling need only be sought if sexual urges are having a tangible negative impact.
Sex Addiction: Withdrawal & Treatment
As sex addiction isn’t a clinically recognized condition, there aren’t any clear-cut, universally accepted guidelines on how to treat it.
However, patients can seek relief through counseling, support groups, psychiatric care, and, in some cases, medication.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Unlike addicts who are dependent on drugs and alcohol, a sex addict won’t experience any physical withdrawal symptoms upon abstaining from sex.
However, the addict may experience psychological dependence, which involves emotional and motivational withdrawal symptoms. Voluntary abstinence or the inability to engage in sexual intercourse may increase sexual cravings and make it difficult for the addict to concentrate on other things. Anxiety, depression, agitation, and mood swings may result.
Treatment Options
A wide variety of treatments are available for people who suffer from a problematic sex addiction. The ideal option depends on the underlying causes of the addiction and the addict’s specific situation.
An addict should visit their doctor as a first point of contact. They will be able to provide a referral to the most appropriate treatment program or service.
Sex Addiction Counseling
Counseling may help a sex addict control their urges and better manage their condition. However, as official regulatory bodies don’t recognize the condition as an addiction, treatment is typically provided by counselors rather than certified psychiatrists.
But that doesn’t mean counseling won’t be underpinned by cutting edge research—many councilors hold master’s degrees or Ph.D.’s in psychology.
Most sex addiction counselors opt to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as their primary approach. The therapy, which is commonly used to treat an array of compulsive behaviors, is a form of psycho-social intervention. It challenges cognitive behaviors to improve emotional regulation and develop effective coping strategies.
Another approach is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a modified form of CBT that’s commonly used to treat borderline personality disorder, self-harm, and substance abuse.
The International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals maintains a list of Certified Sex Addiction Therapists (CSAT), all of whom provide a bespoke program specially designed to treat the condition. However, be aware that their methodologies have not yet been peer reviewed.
Marriage Counseling
When a sex addiction puts a long-term relationship at risk, the addict may benefit from seeking out a marriage counseling service. Although marriage counseling won’t necessarily be the most effective approach at treating the addiction itself, it can help mend the wounds caused by infidelity.
Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are certified psychotherapists who specialize in relationship issues. These highly trained professionals adopt a holistic approach to treat mental or emotional disorders that can negatively affect a long-term relationship, including marriage.
Therapy is typically short-term, with an average of 12 sessions, although some situations may warrant 50 sessions or more. Counseling is conducted both one-on-one and as a couple with the affected spouse.
Sex Addiction Support Groups
Sex addicts can receive assistance in managing their condition through support groups, which meet in-person and discuss their issues online (usually anonymously).
While many addicts believe support groups are a vital tool in combating the condition, participation in these isn’t as effective as professional counseling. Nonetheless, support groups can provide extra help in addition to counseling, and at no cost.
Psychiatric services are often beyond the financial means of uninsured or underinsured sex addicts. Therefore, support groups can sometimes provide the only affordable option to help mitigate the condition.
Online support groups can also be useful when sex addiction counseling services aren’t available in the local region, although many counselors offer sessions online.
The following in-person sex addiction support groups meet frequently in major cities throughout America, and have an online discussion forum on their website.
Many of these support groups suggest a 12-Step program based on the system invented by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). However, there is one key difference: the program endeavors to control problematic sexual activity, not necessarily abstain from it altogether.
Other useful online resources include:
All the aforementioned resources host forums and/or online video conferencing sessions to connect addicts who are unable to meet in-person.
Sex Addiction Inpatient Treatment Programs
Although most addicts seek assistance via outpatient treatments such as support groups and counseling, in-depth inpatient programs have been shown to yield promising results.
The treatment centers adopt a similar approach to drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs, incorporating a comprehensive schedule of group and individual therapy sessions. Attendees typically reside within the clinic for a period of 30 days, although some may require a stay of several months.
Inpatient treatment programs are effective at giving the addict the tools they need to reign in their impulses and initiate the healing process. However, these programs require a significant financial investment, and aren’t always covered by medical insurance.
Medication
There are no widely accepted medications to treat sex addiction or hypersexuality disorder on its own. However, when these conditions stem from an anxiety or mood disorder, a qualified psychiatric professional may prescribe medication to treat the underlying cause.
Benzodiazepines are prescription medications used to treat anxiety disorder, which include:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
These medications are only recommended for short-term use because they may cause drowsiness and issues pertaining to balance and memory. Benzodiazepines are also a commonly abused habit-forming drug—only consider taking such medications under close supervision with your doctor.
Other anti-anxiety medications include Buspirone, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), Tricyclics, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), and Beta-blockers.
If you believe anxiety or mood disorders are the underlying cause of your sex addiction, speak with a psychiatrist first. Only a qualified psychiatric professional has the necessary expertise to determine which of these medications, if any, will be suitable for treating the condition.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Some sex addicts may find that everyday lifestyle adjustments can be beneficial in managing their condition.
Abstaining from common triggers, such as sexually explicit content, including pornography, may help the addict control their cravings.
Home remedies intended to reduce anxiety can help, but only if anxiety has been identified as an underlying cause. Effective anti-anxiety treatments you can safely administer with medical supervision include exercise, meditation, chamomile tea, and aromatherapy oils.
Sex addicts may find it easier to control their behavior by removing themselves from situations where sexual encounters frequently arise. By making a conscious effort to avoid promiscuous bars and nightclubs, the sex addict will have less opportunity to engage in harmful behavior. Likewise, deleting dating and hook-up apps can further reduce sexual opportunities.
Addicts who spend money on sexual services could share their bank account with a trusted partner to help keep them accountable. For example, if your spouse has direct access to your transaction history, you’ll be less likely to spend money on prostitutes for fear of being caught.
Sex Addiction: Finals Thoughts
Although sex addiction isn’t a clinically recognized condition under the DSM, the disorder can still be highly problematic for some people.
By identifying the underlying causes and monitoring for symptoms, you can determine whether you or a loved one may be suffering from the condition. If you suspect there is an addiction at play, your first step should be to speak with your family doctor, who will refer you to the appropriate psychiatric service.
Medical Disclaimer
At RehabAid.com, we are dedicated to helping people recover from problematic substance use and associated mental health disorders. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, you are not alone. Information on treatment and support options is readily available through the National Helpline of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 1-800-662-4357. To further assist you along the path to recovery, the treatment center locator on our website allows you to easily find rehabilitation programs and services in your local area.
We provide our readers with factual, evidence-based content concerning the causes and nature of addiction, as well as available treatment options. However, this informative content is intended for educational purposes only. It is by no means a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. With regard to any addiction-related health concerns, you should always seek the guidance of a qualified, registered physician who is licensed to practice medicine in your particular jurisdiction. You should never avoid or delay seeking professional health care advice or services based on information obtained from our website. Our authors, editors, medical reviewers, website developers, and parent company do not assume any liability, obligation, or responsibility for any loss, damage, or adverse consequences alleged to have happened directly or indirectly as a result of the material presented on RehabAid.com
Key Sources
American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. DSM 5. https://dsm.psychiatryonline.org/doi/book/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596
World Health Organization. International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10). 2020. https://www.who.int/classifications/icd/ICD10Volume2_en_2010.pdf
Robinson, Karen M. DNS, RN, CS, FAAN. Understanding Hypersexuality: A Behavioral Disorder of Dementia. 2003. https://doi.org/10.1097%2F00004045-200301000-00010
Laurent Karila, Aline Wery, Aviv Weinstein, Olivier Cottencin, Aymeric Petit, Michel Reynaud, Joel Billieux. 2014. Sexual Addiction or Hypersexual Disorder: Different Terms for the Same Problem? A Review of the Literature. https://doi.org/10.2174%2F13816128113199990619
The Economist. Can You Really Be Addicted to Sex? 2017. https://www.1843magazine.com/features/can-you-really-be-addicted-to-sex