Sexuality is a normal and healthy part of human life. It can contribute to intimacy, connection, pleasure, and overall well-being. However, for some individuals, sexual behaviours can become compulsive, excessive, and increasingly difficult to control despite repeated negative consequences. When sexual behaviour begins to dominate a person's life, interfere with relationships, impair functioning, and continue despite significant harm, professional intervention may be necessary.

Although there remains debate regarding terminology and classification, clinicians commonly refer to these patterns as sex addiction, compulsive sexual behaviour, hypersexuality, or Compulsive Sexual Behaviour Disorder (CSBD). Regardless of the label used, the experiences of individuals struggling with compulsive sexual behaviours are often characterized by shame, secrecy, loss of control, and significant emotional distress.

As addiction therapists, we focus less on the specific label and more on understanding how the behaviour is impacting a person's life and ability to function in a healthy, balanced way.