Many people struggle with sexual behaviors that feel difficult to control, create shame, or interfere with relationships and daily life. While “sex addiction” is a common term, clinicians may also describe patterns such as compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD), which is recognized in the ICD-11 as a condition involving repetitive sexual behaviors that become a central focus of life and continue despite negative consequences.
If you are wondering whether your behavior has crossed the line from healthy sexuality into something harmful, this guide explains common signs, contributing factors, and treatment options. You may also want to read 9 signs you might be addicted to sex for a practical checklist-style overview.
What Is Sex Addiction or Compulsive Sexual Behavior?
The DSM-5 does not list “sex addiction” as an official diagnosis. However, the ICD-11 includes compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) as a recognized clinical condition. CSBD is generally described as a persistent pattern of failure to control intense, repetitive sexual impulses or urges, resulting in repetitive sexual behavior over an extended period that causes marked distress or impairment.
It is also important to distinguish distress caused by behavior itself from distress driven purely by moral judgment, cultural expectations, or relationship conflict. A qualified clinician can help clarify what is happening and what support is appropriate.
Common Signs of a Problem
Clinical research is still evolving, but common patterns associated with compulsive sexual behavior include:
- Difficulty controlling sexual urges or behaviors, even after attempts to stop
- Spending excessive time seeking sexual stimulation or recovering from acting out
- Continuing despite negative consequences (relationship damage, work impact, financial problems)
- Escalation in frequency, intensity, or risk over time
- Using sexual behavior to cope with stress, anxiety, loneliness, boredom, or sadness
For a more detailed symptom list, read 9 signs you might be addicted to sex.
What Causes Compulsive Sexual Behavior?
There is no single cause. Like other addiction-like conditions, compulsive sexual behavior can involve a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors. Common contributors include:
- Unprocessed trauma or chronic stress
- Depression, anxiety, or emotion regulation difficulties
- Attachment wounds, intimacy avoidance, or relationship instability
- Compulsive coping patterns (using behavior to reduce distress temporarily)
- Co-occurring substance use that lowers inhibition or increases impulsivity
If you suspect co-occurring concerns, resources on depression and anxiety may be helpful as part of a bigger clinical picture.
Treatment Options
Treatment typically begins with a professional assessment and an individualized plan. Common treatment components include:
- Individual therapy to identify drivers, triggers, and patterns
- Skills-based therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to strengthen impulse control and emotional regulation
- Group therapy for accountability, support, and shame reduction
- Couples or family support to rebuild trust and stabilize relationships, including family support services
- Co-occurring treatment if mental health or substance use is also present, including mental health treatment
If you want a step-by-step approach to recovery, read how to overcome sex addiction.
When to Seek a Higher Level of Care
If urges feel uncontrollable, behavior is escalating, relationships are collapsing, or there is significant depression, anxiety, or substance use, a structured program may be appropriate. Learn more about sex addiction rehab and how integrated care can support long-term stability.
If you are ready to speak with a clinician about next steps, contact The Heights Treatment.
Sources
- Reed GM, First MB, Kogan CS, et al. Innovations and changes in the ICD-11 classification of mental, behavioural and neurodevelopmental disorders. World Psychiatry. 2019;18(1):3-19.
- Kraus SW, Voon V, Potenza MN. Should compulsive sexual behavior be considered an addiction? Addiction. 2016;111(12):2097-2106. doi:10.1111/add.13297
- Karila L, Wery A, Weinstein A, et al. Sexual Addiction or Hypersexual Disorder: Different Terms for the Same Problem? A Review of the Literature. Current Pharmaceutical Design. 2014;20(25):4012-4020.
