In a world where sexual expression is more open than ever, it can be difficult to know when sexual behaviour has crossed the line from healthy to harmful. For some people, sex becomes more than just a part of life—it becomes a way to escape, cope, or feel in control. When that behaviour starts to interfere with your relationships, mental health, and daily life, it may be a sign of sex addiction.
At Transformation Counselling, we support individuals struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour in a safe, non-judgmental space. In this article, we’ll explore what sex addiction is, what it isn’t, and how counselling can be a powerful step toward healing.
What Is Sex Addiction?
Sex addiction—also known as compulsive sexual behaviour disorder—involves repeated, intense sexual urges or behaviours that feel out of control and continue despite harmful consequences.
This can include:
Excessive use of pornography
Engaging in risky or anonymous sexual encounters
Chronic infidelity or serial affairs
Spending large amounts of time pursuing sexual content or activity
Using sex to numb emotional pain, anxiety, or shame
It’s not about how often you engage in sexual activity. Rather, it’s about how much control you have—and how much it’s impacting your well-being.
Is Sex Addiction Real?
Sex addiction is not currently listed as a formal diagnosis in the DSM-5, which has led to some debate. However, it is recognized by the World Health Organization under the category of Compulsive Sexual Behaviour Disorder.
Many people suffer silently because they feel ashamed or fear being judged. But for those who struggle, the patterns are very real and often mirror other forms of addiction—like alcohol, gambling, or substance use.
How to Know If You Might Have a Problem
Here are some common signs of sex addiction or compulsive sexual behaviour:
You’ve tried to cut back or stop, but can’t
You feel shame or guilt afterward but continue anyway
Your behaviour is affecting your partner or relationships
You feel anxious, depressed, or empty when not engaging in it
You use sex or fantasy to cope with loneliness, stress, or trauma
You’re hiding your behaviour or living a “double life”
If sex becomes a way to numb emotional pain or feel momentary relief, and if it’s damaging your self-worth, connection with others, or ability to live fully—it may be time to seek support.
What Causes Sex Addiction?
Sex addiction doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s often the result of emotional pain, unresolved trauma, unmet needs, or a lack of healthy coping mechanisms. Some possible contributing factors include:
Childhood emotional, physical, or sexual abuse
Abandonment or attachment wounds
Low self-esteem or shame
Anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma
Early exposure to sexual material
Addiction history (including substance abuse or process addictions)
Sex can offer a powerful—but temporary—escape. Over time, this can become a habit loop:
emotional discomfort → sexual behaviour → momentary relief → guilt → repeat.
Impact of Sex Addiction on Life and Relationships
Unaddressed, sex addiction can lead to serious emotional, relational, and even legal consequences. These may include:
Broken trust or repeated infidelity
Feelings of isolation, shame, or self-loathing
Decreased intimacy and connection
Job or financial loss due to risky behaviour
Strained or broken relationships
Risk of STIs or unsafe encounters
Many people living with sex addiction feel trapped in a cycle they can’t escape—but with support and understanding, recovery is absolutely possible.
You Are Not Alone—And You Are Not Broken
Many people struggling with sex addiction feel isolated, ashamed, or hopeless. But you are not your behaviours. You are a whole person who deserves healing, connection, and the chance to live with freedom and integrity.
Get Online Counselling Support for Sex Addiction
If you or someone you love is dealing with compulsive sexual behaviour, help is available. At Transformation Counselling, our therapists provide confidential, non-judgmental online counselling that meets you where you are—physically and emotionally.
Click the button below to book your first session and begin your journey toward healing and self-understanding. You don’t have to do this alone.