How is Sex Addiction diagnosed? Are there DSM-5 criteria?
Published:
Nov 9, 2024
,
08:20 p.m.
ET
There are no DSM-5 criteria for sex addiction. However, sexual addiction has been referred to as compulsive sexual disorder or hypersexuality. To meet this criteria, an individual would have to experience compulsive sexual fantasies, intense urges, and behaviors that interfere with daily life in the past six months.
Is Sex Addiction real?
Sex addiction isn't recognized as a diagnosable condition, like most other behavioral addictions. Still, it can be considered a mental health condition. Some experts and doctors might associate sex addiction with impulsive control disorder (ICD). Sex addiction might also be mistaken for other behavioral addictions, such as love addiction or pornography addiction.
How is Sex Addiction diagnosed? DSM-5 criteria? Is there a test?
Since sex addiction isn't listed in the DSM-5, it can be hard to diagnose. If you notice that you struggle with compulsive sexual behavior, you might want to consult a doctor or mental health professional.
You will then undergo a psychological evaluation. You will be asked about your compulsions, fantasies, and behaviors related to sex. A doctor will also determine whether your behavior has impacted your relationships, academics, and job. If the present symptoms are severe, your doctor might diagnose you with sex addiction.
You can also get a self-assessment online. Birches Health offers a free, quick Sex Addiction Test that can help you determine if your sexual behaviors may be problematic. You won't have to wait for the results. What’s also beneficial about this assessment is that it’s safe and confidential.
Warning Signs of Sex Addiction
Most people experience sexual attraction or sexual desire. It's natural to feel this way. Normal sexual behavior becomes addictive when those compulsive urges are unsettling and difficult to overcome.
Some of the most common signs of sex addiction include:
Inability to control or quit sexual behavior
Increased sexual urges and fantasies
Increased spending on hookup apps, pornography, and escort services
Feelings of guilt or shame after sexual acts
Sexual fantasies, thoughts, and behaviors that disrupt one's daily life
Making sexual acts a priority over other responsibilities
Legal fallout from risky sexual behavior
Contracting sexually transmitted diseases
Potential causes of becoming a sex addict
Early exposure to pornographic materials or sexual trauma can also cause sex addiction. Mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance abuse are common with sex addiction.
Because of this, there's no underlying reason for sex addiction. Experts have researched certain biological or environmental factors that could contribute to the disorder. Studies found that those with a history of addiction in their family are more likely to struggle with sex addiction.
Sex addiction can also be attributed to early childhood trauma. For example, some individuals might have been exposed to sexual abuse or pornography at a young age. Other co-occurring problems such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorder, and substance abuse are also linked to sex addiction.
Treatment options for Sex Addiction
Treatment for sex addiction is similar to treatment for other behavioral addictions. This comprehensive treatment includes counseling, medication, and self-help support groups. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is most commonly used to treat sex addiction. Individuals learn how to rewire their brains and recognize the thoughts that cause their addiction.
Individualized counseling, family therapy, and couples counseling might also be required. Either of these sessions will help individuals uncover their trauma or attachment issues stemming from sex.
Support groups can offer community and accountability. One example is Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA), which allows members to share their experiences. Meetings are available online, in person, or via phone.
Depending on the severity of the addiction, medication might be prescribed. Some medications can help reduce sexual cravings. Medication might also be used to treat any co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Comprehensive treatment will offer all of these therapy options. Individuals will also learn how to develop healthy habits and maintain healthy relationships with themselves and others.
Birches Health offers comprehensive treatment for sex addiction in a virtual environment. Individuals can receive the help they need without leaving their homes or running into someone they know at the doctor's office. Plus, they can book appointments around their schedule.
Birches Health offers counseling and support groups. Individuals will work with a licensed clinician who's knowledgeable about sex addiction. Therapy comes via video chat, text chat, or telephone.
There are different ways to get support from Birches Health:
You can also speak to the team at 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to connect with Birches Health today.
Sex Addiction Statistics
The Begin Again Institute reported that 12 to 30 million individuals in the United States alone admitted to having a sex addiction. However, there is a big span of reported individuals. Most people fail to report their behavior.
Because of this, it can be hard to determine how many people in the world suffer from sex addiction. The study found an occurrence rate of 5%. Sex addiction is now as common as other behavioral addictions and mental health disorders.
