There is a lot of stigma and myths surrounding sex and love addiction.
Sex and love addiction are the same
False – Although there are many similarities between sex and love addiction, they are not the same thing. Being addicted to love means being dependent on the feeling of love itself, whereas sex addiction involves sexual intercourse or gratification.
Someone with a sex addiction may not be interested in being in a relationship, and someone with a love addiction is not necessarily dependent on sex in an unhealthy way.
Love addiction only applies to toxic relationships
False
It is a common misconception that love addiction only occurs in toxic relationships. In fact, you could be perfectly happy in your relationship while having a love addiction.
This manifests in different ways. You may want to be in the honeymoon phase for as long as possible or jump between relationships to keep experiencing love. You may also want to stick to the same partner to avoid not feeling loved.
Love and sex addiction love can lead to depression
True
One of the common symptoms of sex and love addiction is depression. This may occur because you are unsure of where to turn to for help, you realise that sex won’t fulfil you or you are rejected by someone.
People with love addiction are always happy
False
Someone going from one relationship to the next one may look happy from the outside. However, they may be dealing with shame and suffering from low self-esteem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sex addicts able to have a healthy relationship?
Yes, sex addicts can have healthy relationships with proper treatment and support. Overcoming sex addiction typically involves therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or sex addiction counselling, to address underlying emotional issues, compulsive behaviours, and relationship patterns. Building trust, improving communication, and setting boundaries are key recovery components. Individuals can develop healthier relationships with commitment and a supportive partner, though it often requires ongoing effort and professional guidance to maintain long-term success.
What are the four types of love addicts?
The four types of love addicts are:
The Anxious Type: Clingy and overly dependent on relationships for self-worth.
The Avoidant Type: Fearful of intimacy and often distance themselves emotionally.
The Co-Dependent Type: Sacrifices their own needs to care for others, often to an unhealthy degree.
The Obsessive Type: Becomes fixated on a partner, often ignoring personal boundaries and becoming overly controlling.
Each type displays different patterns of unhealthy attachment, often requiring therapy to break cycles and develop healthier relationship habits.
Who is most likely to develop a love/sex addiction?
Individuals with a history of trauma, abuse, or emotional neglect are at a higher risk of developing love or sex addiction. Those with low self-esteem, attachment issues, or a history of unstable relationships may be more vulnerable. People who use sex or love as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression are also more likely to develop compulsive behaviours. Additionally, those who struggle with impulse control or have a family history of addiction may be at greater risk.
