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This page covers the definitions of compulsive sexual behaviours, as well as the support and resources available to you.
What is compulsive sexual behaviour disorder?
Compulsive sexual behaviour disorder (CSBD), sometimes called sex addiction, is an impulse control disorder defined by intense preoccupation with sexual urges, behaviours or fantasies.
These urges can take up a lot of time and preoccupy your thoughts. Engaging in behaviours which cause harm to yourself or others, but feeling unable to stop, may indicate a sex addiction.
Sex addiction can range from obsessive thoughts of sexual acts, to a high level of participation or engagement in sexual activity. This applies to both online and in-person activity. The short-term and long-term risks of sex addiction disorder include, but are not limited to:
- Health issues such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and injuries.
- Depression and/or anxiety.
- Family and/or relationship difficulties.
- Alcohol misuse and substance abuse.
- Feelings of guilt and shame.
- Lack of focus or concentration.
- Sleep issues or insomnia.
- Sexual dysfunction.
- Financial problems.
- Criminal or legal problems if a sexual offence has occurred.
Resources and support
If you are experiencing problems relating to compulsive sexual behaviours, or know someone who is, please remember that you are not alone. You can access free and confidential support at UCL as a registered student. Our empathetic team can support you to find the best treatment method for your needs.
There are also a number of services and websites that can help you better understand and cope with compulsive sexual behaviours or sex addiction.
- ATSAC (the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity)
ATSAC (the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity) is a not-for-profit organisation offering information, advice and support for people experiencing sex addiction and compulsive sexual behaviours.
The organisation provides definitions of sex addiction and the range of therapies and support groups available to you. You also can complete the ATSAC self-assessment tool to better understand your behaviours.
To get in touch with ATSAC and explore your treatment options, you can fill out their contact form online.
- Sex Addicts Anonymous
Sex Addicts Anonymous is a peer-led fellowship. The organisation host regular group meetings in local communities to support recovery from harmful sexual behaviours.
Use the SAA meeting search tool to find a meeting online, by telephone or in-person in your local area.
You can contact the organisation by phone by calling 07585 091502 or 07748 168164. You can email the team at info@saauk.info.
For women preferring to contact a woman, call 07766 075247 or email women@saauk.info.
For Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer+ (LBGTQ+) people preferring to contact an LGBTQ+ person, call 07825 147995 or email lgbtq@saauk.info.
- Relate
Relate is a charity providing relationship support in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Read the Relate webpage on sex addiction for guidance on compulsive sexual behaviours and the support options available to you.
- The Mix
The Mix is a digital charity offering non-judgemental support to 13-25 year olds on issues relating to mental health, sex and relationships, drugs, careers and money. The Mix website offers a wide range of articles and advice pages on issues relating to compulsive sexual behaviours.
You can contact The Mix team to access their crisis messenger service or counselling services.
Visit The Mix website for further guidance and support resources.
- NoFap
NoFap is a website dedicated to helping people overcome pornography addiction, excessive masturbation, and other compulsive sexual behaviours.
You can join a support group or a community forum.
- Sexaholics Anonymous
Support groups for individuals who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviours, including pornography use.
Visit the Sexaholics Anonymous website.
- App blocking software - Digital Wellbeing Android
Use your phone’s digital wellbeing controls to block certain apps, or put them on a timer.
Visit the Android website to find out more.
- App blocking software - Digital Wellbeing iPhone
Use your phone’s digital wellbeing controls to block certain apps, or put them on a timer.
Visit the Apple website to find out more.
- Website blocking software - Cold Turkey
Cold Turkey blocks specific websites which may help you manage sex addiction.