Overview
Sexual dependency, also known as hypersexuality or compulsive sexual behavior, refers to a condition in which an individual has an obsession with sexual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The problem gets so bad that it affects the individual’s health, work, and relationships, as well as other areas. The dependency can also be related to fantasies or activities that aren’t within legal and morally acceptable limits. With sexual dependency counseling and therapy, patients can learn to control their urges and lead a fulfilling life.
Symptoms
Healthy adults can feel strong sexual impulses. It only becomes a problem if it is taken to an extreme that damages other aspects of life or becomes harmful to others. Signs of sexual dependency include:
- intense sexual feelings beyond your control,
- a lack of pleasure or satisfaction out of sexual activity,
- the usage of sexual behavior to escape from emotional problems,
- a problem having emotional intimacy in any relationships,
- and engaging in risky sexual behaviors regardless of the serious consequences that could result.
Causes
There are a lot of possible factors as to why someone might suffer from sexual dependency, but there’s no consensus on an absolute cause. In reality, there are some factors that are highly correlated to sexual dependency, including:
- an imbalance in natural brain chemicals,
- sex hormone levels,
- changes in brain pathways,
- and various brain conditions.
Treatment
To treat sexual dependency, most patients undergo psychotherapy, participate in self-help groups, and sometimes take medications. The main purpose of sexual dependency therapy is to get down to the root cause of where the sexual dependency is coming from and why. In terms of diagnosis, sexual dependency mental health professionals also look at other mental illnesses to determine if the sexual dependency is a symptom of something deeper. As for medications, everything from antidepressants to mood stabilizers could help, depending on the specific symptoms and causes of a patient’s sexual dependency.
Prevention
Without knowing the cause of sexual dependency, it’s difficult to predict what could prevent it, but there are a few factors that can help. First and foremost, if you or someone you care about seems to be exhibiting symptoms of sexual dependency, the best thing to do is get help from a qualified sexual dependency therapist as quickly as possible. This can keep symptoms from escalating and prevent a downward spiral that takes patients into a place that’s hard to recover from later. For those who recognize the signs of sexual dependency within themselves, it’s wise to stay away from drugs and alcohol, as well as pornographic websites and physical locations where it might be tempting to look for a sexual partner.
Why Choose New Horizons to Treat Sexual Dependency?
At New Horizons, we have sexual dependency counseling services and mental health professionals in North Dallas and McKinney that can help. If you or a loved one is suffering from sexual dependency, the right thing to do is seek treatment early. Contact us as soon as possible to get started on the road to recovery.
