If you feel your sexual behaviour is difficult to control, causes distress, or is affecting your relationships, work, or emotional wellbeing, you're not alone. This self-assessment offers a private and non-judgemental space to reflect on patterns that may be linked to compulsive or problematic sexual behaviour.
Compulsive sexual behaviour, sometimes referred to as sex addiction or out-of-control sexual behaviour, describes a pattern where sexual thoughts, urges, or actions begin to feel overwhelming, disruptive, or emotionally distressing. It may involve a loss of control around sexual behaviour, even when the individual recognises that it’s having a negative impact on their wellbeing, relationships, or responsibilities.
This pattern is not defined by how often someone engages in sexual activity or by their preferences, but rather by how the behaviour feels internally — especially when it becomes difficult to manage or creates emotional distress, secrecy, or disruption in daily life.
For many, these behaviours develop as a way of coping with deeper emotional struggles such as stress, loneliness, anxiety, shame, or low self-worth. Over time, what may have started as a coping strategy can begin to feel compulsive, isolating, or harmful.
This experience is more common than people often realise, and it does not reflect moral failure or lack of willpower. With the right support, it is possible to explore the emotional roots of the behaviour, restore balance, and build a healthier relationship with sexuality.
We only recruit therapists with extensive experience, the right qualifications, and a genuine passion for helping others because your mental health deserves nothing less than the best.
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While each person's experience is unique, some common signs include:
Recognising these patterns is not about judgement. It’s about gaining awareness and choosing to explore healthier ways of relating to your sexuality and emotional needs.
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