There is often a misunderstanding about sexual addiction, in which people commonly believe that wanting “too much sex” is directly related to a lack of self-control or desire to overindulge.
While a sexual addiction is not an official diagnosis according to the DSM-5, it is a severe disorder than countless individuals are dealing with across the globe.
Many complex factors influence the development of sexual addiction or the need to engage in hypersexual behaviors, including genetics, neurobiology, environmental factors, the experience of trauma and more.
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Because sexual addiction stems from a variety of issues, many which are complex in themselves, seeking out interdisciplinary treatment is essential for recovery.
In addition to this, a person suffering with a sexual addiction may also be dealing with a myriad of complications including:
- Poor physical health
- Illness
- Co-occurring mental disorders
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Social problems
- Marital problems
- Financial destruction
The most effective way for repairing the damages that have occurred as a result of sexual addiction is by directly seeking out treatment and help.
Denial & Reluctance
Many individuals suffering with sexual addiction may be reluctant to seeking out treatment.
There is often denial about the seriousness of the disorder or shame and guilt about the nature of this illness.
A person may also be worried about speaking honestly of their struggles or taking the necessary time for seeking out help and treatment.
The reality is that professional intervention is needed to prevent further destruction and damage, and until the appropriate treatment is sought, the consequences of sexual addiction will begin to compound dramatically.
If you have been struggling with a sexual addiction but have been hesitate to take the time for help and treatment, reach out to someone for help and support.
Consider taking a leave of absence from your job or school in order to make treatment a priority and focus completely on what you need to do to recover and truly overcome your sexual addiction.
A leave of absence is often a feasible option as you will often have job protection during your time away from work.
You might discuss what this option would look like and involve with your sexual addiction specialist to find out if this decision is right for you.
About the Author: Crystal is a Masters-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a specialty focus in eating disorders, maternal/child health and wellness, and intuitive eating. Combining clinical experience with a love of social media and writing, Crystal serves as the Special Projects Coordinator for Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope, where her passion to help others find recovery and healing is integrated into each part of her work.
As a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Crystal has dedicated her career to helping others establish a healthy relationship with food and body through her work with EDH/AH and nutrition private practice.
The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of addictions. These are not necessarily the views of Addiction Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.
We at Addiction Hope understand that addictions result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on January 26, 2016
Published on AddictionHope.com