Masturbation Addiction: Signs, Symptoms & Treatments

Is It Possible to Have a Masturbation Addiction?

Masturbation is a normal and healthy sexual behavior when practiced in moderation. However, for some individuals, it becomes a compulsive behavior, where the urge to masturbate feels uncontrollable. While the term “masturbation addiction” is often used in casual discussions, it is not recognized as a diagnosable condition.³ Experts generally view it as a form of compulsive behavior rather than an addiction, often occurring as a symptom of underlying mental health or behavioral disorders.³

What Is Considered Excessive Masturbation?

Masturbation is considered excessive when it starts to interfere with important parts of daily life, like relationships, responsibilities, or personal well-being. What’s “normal” varies from person to person, so it’s not just about how often it happens.¹ For example, daily masturbation isn’t a problem unless it feels compulsive or gets in the way of things like work, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.⁴ If the behavior causes distress or starts to take priority over other important aspects of life, it might be a sign that it’s becoming an issue.

Here are some common signs of excessive masturbation:

• Masturbating takes up a significant amount of time and energy, interfering with daily life
• Home, work, or personal life suffers due to excessive masturbation
• Being late to meetings, canceling events, or leaving social appointments early to masturbate
• Masturbating in public or uncomfortable places because waiting is difficult
• Engaging in masturbation even without feeling aroused, sexual, or “horny”
• Using masturbation as a primary way to cope with negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, stress, or sadness
• Difficulty stopping the behavior despite a desire to do so
• Persistent thoughts about masturbation make it hard to focus on other things
• Experiencing cravings or withdrawal-like symptoms when not masturbating
• Physical effects, such as loss of sensitivity or overstimulation, due to excessive masturbation
• Experiencing sexual dysfunction, such as difficulty achieving arousal or satisfaction with a partner

Causes of Masturbation Addiction

Masturbation addiction can stem from a variety of underlying factors.

Here are some potential causes that may lead to excessive or compulsive masturbation:⁵

• Underlying mental health conditions: Depression, anxiety, or stress may drive someone to use masturbation as a way to boost mood, relax, or escape emotional discomfort.
• Brain chemistry and neurobiology: Some individuals may have a predisposition toward addiction due to brain pathways that reward compulsive behaviors. For instance, studies show that compulsive sexual behavior activates similar brain circuits involved in other forms of addiction.
• Family history of addiction:  Growing up in a family where addiction is present can increase the likelihood of developing similar patterns, including compulsive sexual behaviors.
• A history of physical or sexual abuse: Experiencing abuse can create long-lasting emotional wounds, which some may attempt to manage through compulsive sexual behaviors.
• Environmental triggers: Easy access to sexual content can make compulsive behaviors harder to resist, especially when combined with other risk factors like stress or loneliness.

It’s important to note that these factors don’t always need to be present for someone to develop a problem. Sometimes, the behavior starts as a way to enjoy self-gratification but gradually leads to changes in brain chemistry and other issues, making it harder to control over time. Recognizing these triggers is key to addressing the issue early.

How to Stop Chronic Masturbation

Overcoming chronic masturbation can feel like a big challenge, but it’s absolutely doable with the right mindset and support. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about making small, intentional changes that help you feel more in control and create a healthier balance in your life. Compulsive habits often have deeper emotional or situational roots, so addressing those can make a huge difference.

Here are seven tips for stopping compulsive masturbating:

1. Set Attainable Goals

Start small and set realistic goals for yourself. For example, aim to reduce the frequency gradually rather than trying to stop all at once. Clear, achievable goals help build confidence and give you a sense of control over the behavior.

2. Identify & Remove Your Triggers

Pay attention to the times, emotions, or situations that lead to the urge to masturbate. Is it boredom, stress, or being alone? Once you identify these triggers, come up with a plan. If boredom is a trigger, schedule activities during those times. If certain locations or routines are a problem, try to change them up or avoid them.

3. Find Healthier Alternatives

Compulsive masturbation is often a way to cope with underlying emotions like stress, boredom, loneliness, or even emotional pain. Finding healthier ways to cope is essential. For example, if stress is a trigger, try activities like yoga, exercise, or journaling to channel that energy in a positive direction. If boredom is the issue, explore hobbies that excite you—like learning a new skill, playing a sport, or diving into creative projects. The goal is to replace the habit with alternatives that help you feel better without relying on the behavior you’re trying to change.

4. Practice Mindfulness When the Urge Rises

When you feel the urge, pause and take a moment to check in with yourself. Notice what emotions or thoughts are driving the compulsion. Mindfulness techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or grounding exercises can help you ride out the urge and make a more conscious choice.

5. Let Go of the Shame

Shame and guilt can make it harder to break free from compulsive behavior. Remind yourself that masturbation is a natural part of life, and feeling shame about it often stems from cultural or societal expectations. Reflect on where these feelings come from and focus on healing those insecurities. Self-compassion is key to developing a healthier relationship with yourself.

6. Seek Professional Help

If you’re struggling to manage a masturbation addiction on your own, therapy can be a game-changer. A counselor or psychologist who specializes in compulsive behaviors or addiction can help you address underlying issues, like anxiety, depression, or trauma. Techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can also give you tools to handle urges and develop healthier habits. Additionally, couples therapy can be invaluable if your behavior is impacting your relationship. A trained therapist can help you and your partner rebuild trust, improve communication, and navigate the emotional challenges together, fostering a healthier and more supportive dynamic.

7. Join a Support Group

Talking with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly helpful. Support groups like Sexual Compulsives Anonymous offer a judgment-free space where you can share experiences, learn from others, and build a support network.