Sexual addiction is defined as any sexually-related, compulsive behavior which interferes with normal living and causes severe stress on family, friends, loved ones, and one's work environment.

Sexual addiction has been called sexual dependency and sexual compulsivity. By any name, it is a compulsive behavior that completely dominates the addict's life. Sexual addicts make sex a priority more important than family, friends, and work. Sex becomes the organizing principle of addict's lives. They are willing to sacrifice what they cherish most in order to preserve and continue their unhealthy behavior.

Dr. Patrick Carnes, a leader in sex addiction training for clinical professionals estimates three to six percent of the population are facing sexual addiction. It remains unclear whether one gender has a higher incidence of sexual addiction than the other. Research by Dr. Carnes shows that approximately 20 - 25% of all patients who seek help for sexual dependency are women. (This same male-female ratio is found among those recovering from alcohol addiction, drug addiction, and pathological gambling.)

According to Dr. Patrick Carnes, no single behavior pattern defines sexual addiction and even the healthiest forms of human sexual expression can turn into self-defeating behaviors. While an actual diagnosis for sexual addiction should be determined by a mental health professional, the following behavior patterns can indicate the presence of sexual addiction.  If you are exhibiting any of these patterns in your life or if you are a partner or spouse of  someone who is, please reach out to me for professional help.

In Dr. Carnes' book, Don't Call It Love some of the losses reported by sex addicts include:

Examples may include: