The Dangers of Sex Addiction, and How to Get Help

When we think of addiction, we tend to think of substances like drugs and alcohol. And while many people are affected by substance abuse, addiction can also involve compulsive behaviors like risky sex, gambling and other harmful habits. In fact, sex addiction is an issue that plagues countless people, and is associated with life-threatening complications like an enhanced risk for contracting HIV and other diseases. 

If you are suffering from an addiction to sex or sexual behaviors, know that help is available. Keep reading to learn more about this debilitating illness, including information on safe, effective treatment. 

What is Sex Addiction?

Sex addiction, also known as hypersexuality disorder or compulsive sexual behavior, is characterized by obsessive sexual thoughts, urges or behaviors that have a negative impact on health, relationships and other areas of life. Much like addiction to drugs or alcohol, sex addiction is associated with repeated behaviors that continue despite the appearances of negative consequences. For example, men who repeatedly seek the company of prostitutes, even after these behaviors have disrupted their marriages, lives or relationships, may be suffering from sex addiction. 

No matter the particular behavior, compulsive sexual actions can have a severe impact on self-esteem, physical health and other areas of well-being. What’s more, self-esteem and other psychological and emotional issues often play a primary role in the development of compulsive sexual behaviors. For example, bipolar disorder, depression and other mood disorders can increase the risks associated with sex addiction, as can a history of sexual abuse and problems with drugs and alcohol. 

Symptoms of Sex Addiction

While symptoms of sex addiction can vary, they typically include the following:

• Feeling as though sexual urges are beyond your control.  
• Difficulties establishing and maintaining emotional intimacy, even if you are married or in a committed relationship. 
• Failure to find satisfaction in acting on sexual urges.  
• Using risky sex as a means of escaping from stress and/or reality. 
• Repeatedly engaging in risky, unsafe or illegal sex acts, including prostitution, unprotected sex, extramarital affairs, etc. 

Treating Sex Addiction

Without the proper treatment, compulsive sexual behaviors can result in serious risks to health and well-being. These include divorce, the spread of disease, worsening emotional problems, legal troubles, problems at work and more. Thankfully, sex addiction can be treated. Sex addiction treatment for men typically involves addressing the causes and effects as well as helping patients live healthy, fulfilling lives.

• Counseling. Psychotherapy can be used to uncover the driving forces behind an individual’s issues with sex, as well as help lay the groundwork for a healthy future. What’s more, counseling can help in identifying underlying mental illness, which may contribute to compulsive sexual behaviors.  
• Medications. Since many people with compulsive sexual urges also suffer from mental illness, medications are often used to enhance health and prevent a recurrence of symptoms. These drugs often include mood stabilizers, antidepressants and anxiety medications. Also, in individuals with high testosterone, hormone therapy may be used to reduce sexual urges.  
• Support groups. Sex addiction is associated with a fair amount of shame and stigma; as a result, those suffering from this illness often feel alone and misunderstood. Support groups and group therapy can provide patients with the help and support of peers, which can reduce feelings of shame and loneliness, as well as enhance the odds of a successful recovery. 

 

Although compulsive sexual behaviors can have severe consequences on health and well-being, help is available. With the proper treatment, individuals suffering from sex addiction can learn to manage this illness, and live safe, healthy, happy lives.