Sex addiction: Signs and treatment

Compulsive sexual behaviour, also known as hypersexuality and sexual addiction, is an intense focus on sexual behaviour, fantasies, or urges that are hard to control. This type of behaviour can cause a lot of distress and problems for your health, relationships, and work. A person who is addicted to sex can experience withdrawal symptoms if they are unable to engage in this addictive behaviour. It is not the same as having a high sex drive, which may actually be good for your sex life. On the other hand, sex addiction can lead to distress and negatively impact your sex life. Not sure if you are a sex addict? Take a look at the common symptoms and signs of sex addiction.

What is sex addiction?

Addiction is characterised by persistent cravings and increased engagement, consuming significant time and taking precedence over other tasks or responsibilities. Sex addiction is a compulsive pattern where people engage excessively in sexual activities, says mental health and behavioural science expert Dr Sameer Malhotra. The person may experience restlessness, irritability, or withdrawal symptoms when unable to engage in addictive behaviour, often neglecting important tasks and obligations as a result. About 2 to 6 percent of the general population experience hypersexuality, according to research published in the Journal of Psychosexual Health in 2022.

Is sex addiction different from a high sex drive?

A high sex drive refers to a strong natural urge or desire for sexual activity, which is a normal variation in human sexuality, says the expert. It typically does not lead to negative consequences or interfere significantly with daily life or responsibilities. In contrast, sex addiction involves compulsive or obsessive sexual behaviour that causes distress, disrupts daily functioning, and may lead to negative consequences such as relationship problems, and health issues.

What are the causes of sex addiction?

The cause of sex addiction is not very clear, but it may be due to:

• Low serotonin and high dopamine levels in the brain
• Lack of self-control due to dysregulation in the frontal areas of the brain
• Unstructured time and lack of positive, constructive hobbies for healthy energy channeling
• Social isolation and loneliness

Certain medications may also trigger compulsive sexual behaviour in some people. A link was found between some treatments for Parkinson’s disease based on dopamine replacement and increased symptoms of compulsive sexual behaviour, as per a 2010 study published in Jama Neurology.

What are the signs of sex addiction?

Here are some signs of sex addiction:

1. Uncontrollable sexual urges

A common sign of sexual addiction is an uncontrollable urge to engage in sexual activity. People often spend a lot of time thinking about sex, watching pornography, or seeking sexual encounters.

2. Continuously engaging in risky sexual behaviour

People with sexual addiction often engage in risky behaviour. They tend to have unprotected sex not just with their own partner, but other people too. They may also engage in sex work, says the expert.

3. Difficulty controlling sexual behaviours

Those with sex addiction struggle to control their sexual behaviour despite negative consequences on their personal, social, or professional life. They often engage in inappropriate or public sexual activity and spend excessive money on sexual activities.

4. Neglecting other aspects of life

They may neglect their job, relationships, or things they previously liked to do. Sex addicts prioritise sexual activity over their responsibilities, potentially causing job loss or damaged relationships.

5. Negative emotional effects

Sexual addiction often results in feelings of shame, guilt, or low self-esteem. They may feel out of control and ashamed, leading to increased anxiety and depression, says Dr Malhotra.

6. Escalation of sexual behaviours

Over time, people with sexual addiction may find that their previous sexual activities no longer provide the same level of satisfaction. This may make them seek more extreme or frequent sexual activities to achieve the same high.

7. Using sex as a coping mechanism

Sex addicts often use any type of sexual activity as a coping mechanism. They use it to cope with stress, boredom, or loneliness, boredom. They rely on it as a primary means of emotional regulation, says the expert.

8. Excessive masturbation

Masturbation can be enjoyed by singles or even those in a healthy relationship. It can be a healthy way to release sexual tension, but if it goes out of control, it can be a sign of sex addiction. There is no fixed number when it comes to masturbation, but too much would mean you do it so often that it becomes uncomfortable.

What are the ways to treat sex addiction?

Here are some ways to treat sex addiction:

• Take prescribed medications to balance brain chemicals. This can help manage symptoms of mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, says the expert.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy can help a person spot the triggers for sexual impulses and then teach them how to work on their behaviour.
• Create regular habits for sleep, eating nutritious meals, and staying active, which supports both physical and mental health.
• Do yoga or regular exercises to improve mood, reduce stress, and keep the body healthy by releasing feel-good chemicals in the brain.
• Engage in hobbies like writing, painting, gardening, or playing music. These can provide enjoyment and relaxation, boosting mental well-being.
• Fulfill duties at work, and home. This will give a sense of purpose and achievement, which can enhance your self-esteem.

Sex addiction is unhealthy because it disrupts a person’s life in various ways. It often leads to problems in relationships, causing conflicts and emotional distress. It can also affect mental health by causing feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety.