Self Assessment: Am I Addicted to Sex?
What is sexual addiction?
Sex Addiction or Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder, defined by the World Health Organization, “ is characterized by a persistent pattern of failure to control intense, repetitive sexual impulses or urges resulting in repetitive sexual behavior.
Symptoms may include:
Repetitive sexual activities becoming a central focus of the person’s life to the point of neglecting health and personal care or other interests, activities, and responsibilities
Numerous unsuccessful efforts to significantly reduce repetitive sexual behavior
Continued repetitive sexual behavior despite adverse consequences or deriving little or no satisfaction from it.
These symptoms must cause marked distress and impairment in essential aspects of life, including personal, family, social, educational, and occupational. It’s important to note that “distress that is related to moral judgment and disapproval about sexual impulses, urges, or behaviors is not sufficient to meet this requirement.” – World Health Organization
Additionally, if you struggle with out-of-control sexual behavior, you may also experience depression, anxiety, boredom, loneliness, or other negative affective states. We can address these areas of concern in therapy.
Sex addiction is not your fault. But you are responsible for addressing the problems it has caused in your life. You can arrest the behaviors one day at a time. To do this, you must begin a recovery program, or the consequences will continue to mount.
Self-Reflection: Assessing Your Relationship with Sex
Sex addiction involves engaging in sexual activities to a degree that it negatively impacts your life. If you’ve ever questioned whether your relationship with sex might be affecting your well-being, this self-reflection is designed to provide a starting point. Take this opportunity to explore your feelings, behaviors, and perceptions regarding sex, and consider seeking professional guidance if needed.
Important Disclaimer
This self-assessment is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a diagnostic tool and should not be used to self-diagnose any condition. If you are concerned about your mental health or sexual behavior, please schedule an appointment online with a qualified mental health professional.
Questions for Personal Reflection
Honestly reflect on the following questions. Your answers are for your private use in gaining valuable insights and making informed decisions about your well-being.
1.How often do you find yourself thinking about sex throughout the day?
2.Have you ever neglected responsibilities (work, school, family obligations) because of your sexual behaviors?
3.Do you find yourself engaging in risky sexual behaviors, such as unprotected sex or encounters with strangers?
4.How often do you feel guilty or ashamed after engaging in sexual activity?
5.Have you ever tried to cut down on your sexual activities or behaviors without success?
6.Do you find that your sexual behaviors are negatively impacting your relationships, finances, or career?
7.How often do you use sex as a way to escape negative feelings, stress, or anxiety?
8.Have you ever jeopardized your physical or mental health due to your sexual behaviors?
9.Do you feel that you need to engage in increasingly intense or extreme sexual activities to achieve satisfaction?
10How would you rate your overall level of distress regarding your sexual thoughts or behaviors?
Reach out today
I provide individual online therapy for sex/porn addiction. I am licensed in Washington, Georgia, Vermont, Virginia, South Carolina, and Oregon. I can help you identify a plan of action to address your out-of-control behaviors. We will work together to understand your pattern of behaviors and root causes and address neglected areas of your life so you can move toward a life worth living.
Group therapy options are available as well. In group therapy, being in a space with other men can help you come out of denial and into a community where you can be transparent and accepted. We worked from a task-based model, allowing time for personal reflection and group feedback.