Sex addiction (hypersexuality) is manifested by the compulsive need to have sexual activity. This addiction can interfere with daily activities and interpersonal relationships.
People with sexual obsession find it difficult to control their behavior, even if they are aware that there may be unpleasant consequences. Approximately 5% of the population manifest aspects of sex addiction.
The differences between a normal sex life and a sex addiction
Etiology
Currently, the causes that lead to sexual obsession are not exactly known. Within this addiction, several factors are involved:
- genetics
- endocrine
- imbalance of neurotransmitter secretion
- psychiatric disorders
- neurological disorders
- traumas
- environment
Most of those who have sex addiction suffered certain traumas in their childhood. As a result, they develop inappropriate sexual behavior as a form of managing traumatic events. In this case, psychotherapy allows for overcoming the trauma and controlling unwanted behaviors.
Forms of sexual obsession
Sex addiction can manifest itself differently, depending on each person. For example, a person facing addictions regarding sexual stimulation can use the following options:
- watching pornography
- masturbation
- prostitution
- voyeurism (sexual arousal when secretly looking at a person who undresses or is involved in a sexual act)
These frequently practiced manifestations represent an alarm signal. In this situation, it is necessary to consult a psychologist. It can support you in finding a balance in your sexual life and in other daily activities (work, family, etc.). It is important to be aware of and control these behaviors so that negative consequences do not appear.
Symptoms
People with sex addiction are aware of this aspect of their personality. That’s why, most of the time, they try to hide this side of their lives and rarely talk openly about the challenges they face. This happens because they do not want to be stigmatized, as a result of the fact that the people around them do not empathize and even ridicule this behavior.
A person with sexual obsession may experience the following:
- multiple thoughts about sexual activities
- the excessive presence of sexual fantasies
- involvement in sexual activities, even if it interferes with daily activities
- difficulties in controlling impulses and behavior
- carrying out sexual activities at any cost (even if they put themselves in danger)
- multiple sexual partners
Some of those who have these challenges in their lives claim that, after completing the sexual act, they feel guilty. Even so, they cannot control their actions, possibly even leading to infidelity. It is important to mention that not every act of infidelity is caused by sexual addiction.
The differences between a normal sex life and a sex addiction
Sexual activity is normal and brings a multitude of health benefits. However, excessive dedication to sexual acts can be pathological, especially if it interferes with daily activities.
To be able to say that a person’s sexual life is normal, the following are necessary:
- the sexual act takes place as a result of the desire of both partners
- the rhythm of sexual activity is natural (sometimes it can have an increased frequency, sometimes less)
- sexual activity does not affect the performance of work tasks
Complications
Carrying out daily activities and tasks is quite difficult for a person with sexual obsession. As a result of inappropriate sexual behavior, unpleasant consequences appear, such as:
- non-fulfillment of work tasks
- affecting relationships with loved ones
- social isolation
- the increased risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases (in the case of multiple partners)
As a result of these effects, the person with sex addiction can develop:
- feelings of guilt
- anxiety
- depression
- suicidal tendencies
Diagnostic
The diagnosis is established by the psychiatrist or psychologist.
For this, it is important for the patient to communicate openly and highlight the following:
- medical history
- the behaviors that bother him
- since they appeared
- how it manifests itself
- duration
- experienced thoughts
For a person with sex addiction, it can be difficult, at least in the beginning, to communicate these aspects of his life. However, only through free expression, the specialist can orient himself towards a correct diagnosis. Depending on the established diagnosis, the optimal treatment option is chosen.
Treatment
Psychotherapy
Treating sex addiction involves a long process. The most effective treatment method is cognitive-behavioral therapy. This form of psychotherapy has been the subject of much research, where it has proven its effectiveness.
During the psychotherapy sessions, the patient is encouraged to talk openly about the challenges he faces. Also, together with the psychologist, he finds optimal solutions for behavior management.
Medication
Some drugs, such as antidepressants, can also be administered to people with sexual obsession. For this, it is necessary to consult a psychiatrist.
The studies that have been carried out so far have shown that antidepressants have the property of reducing libido. In this way, sexual behavior is easier to control. However, the adverse effects tend to outweigh the benefits.
Therefore, it is essential that the doctor carefully analyze the patient’s medical situation, before prescribing such drugs.
Prevention
Sex addiction can appear as a result of several factors; therefore, prevention is difficult to achieve. To reduce the occurrence of complications and easily manage sexual behavior, it is advisable to participate in psychotherapy sessions.
Other methods that allow better control of the actions carried out consist of:
- resolving childhood traumas
- carrying out exercises for personal development
- observance of sleep hours
- performing physical exercises
- adopting a nutritionally balanced diet
Sex addiction is a disorder that is manifested by an impetuous desire to perform sexual activities. People face difficulties in being able to control their thoughts, behaviors and actions. It is essential to consult a psychologist and attend psychotherapy sessions.
Through them, the patient understands what the cause of hypersexuality is and how it can be managed.
Bibliography:
- https://psychcentral.com/lib/what-is-sexual-addiction#whats-sex-addiction
- https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/sexual-health/can-you-become-addicted-to-sex/
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22690-sex-addiction-hypersexuality-and-co
- https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/signs-sex-addict
- https://www.healthline.com/health/addiction/sex#treatment
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/compulsive-sexual-behavior/symptoms-causes/syc-20360434
