Loss of control, failed attempts, harm to life and distress.

Can porn addiction be treated?

Yes, with self-help, support and therapy such as CBT.

Our self-check helps you reflect; only a clinician can diagnose.

Where can I get help?

A GP, therapist, support group or helpline.

Porn Addiction: Signs, Recovery and Help

Q: Is porn addiction real?

ICD-11 recognises compulsive sexual behaviour disorder; the 'addiction' label is debated.

Written by Muneeb Rana · Medically reviewed by Safi Allah Khan · Last updated 24 October 2026

Quick answer: Porn addiction isn't a formal diagnosis, but ICD-11 recognises compulsive sexual behaviour disorder, which includes out-of-control porn use that causes distress or harm. This hub covers what's known, signs, a private self-check, recovery steps, therapy, the dopamine debate, and where to get help.

Porn addiction: understand it

What it is · Is it real? · Signs
Porn and dopamine (WHO ICD-11)

Check yourself

Private self-check (not a diagnosis)

Recover

Get help

Where to get help · Therapy
In crisis: call or text 988 (US) or local emergency services (988).

Relationships and health

Talk to your partner · Porn and ED

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Sources

WHO ICD-11: 6C72 Compulsive sexual behaviour disorder: icd.who.int (accessed 24 October 2026)
Kraus et al. (2018), Compulsive sexual behaviour disorder in the ICD-11, World Psychiatry: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (accessed 24 October 2026)
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988lifeline.org (accessed 24 October 2026)
Mayo Clinic: Compulsive sexual behavior: mayoclinic.org (accessed 24 October 2026)

Porn Addiction