Overview
Sex addiction, or hypersexuality, is often a debated condition that people consider an excuse for bad behavior. When a celebrity is caught cheating or in a sexually provocative situation, they often cite sex addiction as their excuse. The overuse of the condition in the media has lessened the credibility of those that actually suffer from the disorder.
It is understandable that this condition is misunderstood by most although it is the cause for serious disruption and destruction of the lives of those that are suffering. Hypersexuality is not an accepted mental illness but it is a form of addiction similar to gambling or shopping. The addiction activates the same part of the brain as a drug addiction which makes it difficult to treat. It is not known what causes someone to develop sex addiction but it could be due to an obsessive compulsive disorder. Family history of addictions can predispose someone to have this form of behavioral addiction. It is important to be clear that Hypersexuality is different than having an affair, looking at pornography, employing prostitutes, or frequenting strip clubs. The behavior that accompanies this condition is life altering and greatly disturbs the person dealing with it.
Behaviours
The behaviors seen with Hypersexuality are of an extreme nature. A person that has an obsessive need for sexual pleasure that cannot be controlled might have this condition. The compulsion takes over and can ruin relationships, employment, and health. The desire for sexual pleasure must be fulfilled or the person will be unable to focus, concentrate, or feel normal. This is similar to someone who goes through withdrawals from alcohol or drugs. Someone with this condition might desire sexual intercourse to a degree that they leave their home at night to seek out sexual partners. They might frequent bars or night clubs to find someone to have sex with without consideration for physical attraction. They will have sex indiscriminately with anyone they can and if there is not anyone available they might use all of their money to pay for it. The urge to masturbate might be so intense that the person will do so in public, while driving, or when at work. The need to look at pornography might be so great that the person is unable to leave their home or always has a smartphone or laptop available to visit pornographic websites. The person with the condition is often disgusted with their behavior and has a desire to change. It is important that they receive help for this condition.
Treatment
Treatment for Hypersexuality is similar to treatment for other addictions. Inpatient rehabilitation is sometimes necessary but it is not likely that the sufferer will be able to stop the addiction on their own. Cognitive behavior therapy can help disrupt the habit of seeking sexual pleasure at inappropriate times. An addiction program is ideal but it is necessary to find a professional who has experience dealing with behavioral addictions. It is advisable to find a counselor that is registered with the national association of sexual educators or counselors. Those without proper training could be judgmental or not fully understand the condition. This can lead to the client refusing to seek treatment again. Often when seeking help it is more comfortable for the client to meet with someone who is not in their social circle or a member of the clergy. This is a highly sensitive condition and it is important to find someone qualified the first time.
