Sexual Addictions

Share this article:

Sexual addiction is a condition characterized by intense preoccupation with sex and sexual activity in such a level that it causes problems with the persons interpersonal relationships. This condition is also accompanied by the need to engage in risky sexual activities. Also known as sexual dependency and sexual compulsivity, sexual addiction is a process addiction. This means that the euphoric feeling one gets with this addiction is caused by chemicals released in the brain. The mind soon becomes accustomed to the euphoric feeling and seeks out stimuli that can trigger the release of the same chemicals. Although there are many variations of sexual addiction, one similarity in almost all cases is that this kind of addiction is done in secret and the person becomes skilled in hiding the condition from family and friends.

Behaviors related to sexual addiction

Typical behaviors linked to sexual addiction include multiple sex partners, anonymous sexual encounters, unsafe sex, use of pornography, prostitution, exhibitionism, obsessive dating, and voyeurism. There are two types of sexual addiction: addictive sex alone and addictive sex with someone else. Virgin sex addicts fall in the first category, where the most common acts are masturbation and looking at pornography. Addictive sex with someone else is commonly shown in promiscuity and sexual infidelity.

Treatment of sexual addiction

Treatment of sexual addiction depends on the persons acceptance of the problem and the willingness to seek help. Treatment involves counseling in order to teach the person how to control the urges and education about healthy sexuality. Family therapy may also be useful in cases like these. Fear of failure to overcome the addiction is one of the main obstacles to treatment. Fortunately, counseling is geared toward helping patients overcome this fear as they try to look for approaches that are effective at helping them overcome the addiction.

Our Counsellors are ready to Help. Contact us Today >>