Sex addiction—also called “compulsive sexual behavior,” “compulsive sexual behavior disorder,” or even “hypersexuality”—is a real issue. With so much stigma surrounding it, you may deal with a lot of shame and avoid reaching out for help. But professional help and specialized treatment programs are available at Santé Center for Healing. We’re ready to help. No judgment, no stigma, just empathy, compassion, and treatment that works.
The Reality of Sex Addiction
There’s a lot of shame and stigma around sex, even healthy sexual behaviors. That makes it even harder to recognize when someone struggles with unhealthy patterns. Here are some terms that are often used interchangeably when talking about these behaviors:
- Sex addiction
- Problematic sexual behaviors
- Hypersexuality
- Compulsive sexual behavior disorder
In discussion, there’s really not much difference in these terms, though they do all have their own definitions. Many people think they’re “sex addicts,” but, in reality, they may just think as such because there is so much shame and stigma around sex—and just talking about it. The reality is, though, that compulsive sexual behaviors can destroy relationships and cause serious issues with mental health, like guilt, depression, and anxiety.
What Is Sex Addiction (Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder)?
CSBD, or compulsive sexual behavior disorder, is an intense focus on sexual thoughts to the point that they get in the way of your daily life. This can include urges, fantasies, and even acting on thoughts. People with CSBD may struggle with pornography, cybersex, masturbation, and/or having multiple partners. It can strain relationships and their mental health.
How Does CSBD Start?
It depends. For many people, sex is pleasurable and desirable. It releases dopamine and other “feel-good” chemicals in the brain, similar to using drugs or alcohol. Like drugs or alcohol, though, people can use sex as a way to cope with their challenges. People struggling with trauma or depression may feel distracted from emotional pain or even less “numb” when they’re engaged with sexual thoughts or behaviors. Others who have a hard time with their anxiety might feel less stressed with it. Regardless, someone with CSBD may not enjoy sex the way most people do; the biggest appeal they might find in it is that it’s a way to cope. They may feel deeply shameful, guilty, and negative, but are unable to stop.
Signs of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder
- All-consuming focus on sex
- Negative effects on physical health, including sexually transmitted infections (or STI scares)
- Stress caused by sexual urges, including guilt and shame
- Neglecting other responsibilities for sex
- Failed attempts to control sexual behavior
- Struggling to have a healthy romantic relationship with a partner
- Having issues with money due to sexual activities (including spending money on pornography)
- Watching pornography at work and/or struggling to keep up with responsibilities because of hypersexual urges
- Anger and irritability when unable to engage in sexual behavior
- Depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts caused by sexual thoughts or behaviors
Do You Need Help Getting Control Over Your Sexual Behaviors?
There’s no shame in reaching out for help. Our team is ready to meet you where you are to provide the support that’s right for you. Not sure if you have compulsive sexual behaviors? Take the quiz below to find out.
Compulsive Sexual Behavior Quiz
About Our Sex Addiction Treatment Program
Our compulsive sexual behavior disorder treatment program in the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, area is one where you can make progress without being judged. We know how tough it can be to open up about how you’re truly struggling. That’s why we try to take the pressure off of treatment while you’re here.
Admissions
You can start by talking with our master’s-level admissions counselors. We’ll listen to your story with empathy and compassion. There’s no pressure to get into everything during your first call; you’ll just need to answer a few questions to make sure that Santé Center for Healing would be the right place for you to start treatment.
Assessment and Evaluation
We may need to do an assessment to plan your treatment, including which level of care you might need. Our team of licensed professionals uses standardized tools, like the Sexual Addiction Screening Test (SAST), so we can get an idea of what you’re struggling with. We may use these tools again as treatment goes on, so we can measure your progress.
Treatment Planning
When we plan your treatment, we won’t just be looking at any compulsive sexual behaviors you’re struggling with. We’ll also be looking at your mental health and any other behavioral issues, like substance use, you might be struggling with. You deserve care that treats you like the complex person you are—not just what brought you into treatment.
Compulsive Sexual Behavior Treatment Experts
During treatment, in both individual and group therapy sessions, you’ll work with CSATs (Certified Sex Addiction Therapists through the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals) and others on our team who have Advanced Training in the Treatment of Problematic Sexual Behavior (through the Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health). Talk therapy (psychotherapy), medications, and support groups can all be parts of your personalized treatment plan. As you go through treatment, the Santé team will make updates to your plan that adapt to your progress.
Aftercare and Alumni
Your journey doesn’t stop when you complete our Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder treatment program. The Santé team will work with you to create an aftercare plan that’s meaningful to your future. It might include stepping down to a lower level of care or connecting with ongoing therapy or support groups. You’ll also become part of the Santé alumni group, which keeps you connected with events we host and peers in recovery you can look to for support and inspiration when you need it.
You’re a person, not a problem. Everyone copes with life in different ways. Find out why you cope the way you do and get the help you need to change by reaching out to Santé.
– Josh Pitre, MSW, LCSW, CSAT
Director of Clinical Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sex addiction real?
Yes. Sex addiction, or compulsive sexual behavior disorder, is a real issue for many people. Preoccupations with sex, and often acting on them, can get in the way of job and school responsibilities, cause issues in relationships, and have a serious impact on physical health and mental health.
What causes sex addiction?
It varies from person to person. Trauma and other mental health issues may be some of the most significant causes of compulsive sexual behavior disorder. CSBD usually develops because someone used sex as a way to cope.
Are there any risks of sex addiction?
Yes. Sex addiction can cause issues in romantic and family relationships, physical health issues—including sexually transmitted infections—and money problems from sexual activities. It can also take a toll on mental health, sometimes causing anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
How can you stop sex addiction?
The best way to stop sex addiction is to reach out for help. Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder is extremely isolating because it’s attached to so much shame and stigma. Breaking that stigma and reaching out for support gives you a connection to another person who can listen to your story and help you find a way forward. Professional treatment is also available, and may include talk therapy, support groups, and/or medication.
What types of sex addiction treatment does Santé offer?
Santé Center for Healing provides personalized treatment plans that may include therapy, support groups, family counseling, and medication. We offer different levels of care, including residential, intensive outpatient, and aftercare services. We also have gender-specific programming for both men and women, which can help some clients feel more comfortable opening up during treatment.
Will my partner be involved in treatment?
We may encourage you to involve your partner during family therapy sessions. Rebuilding your relationship will likely be a big part of your recovery journey. While it might be intimidating, reconnecting and being open with your partner can help you reduce any shame and guilt you’re struggling with. It will also give you someone to turn to in the future when you encounter a challenge to your recovery.