Sex Addiction

Since the news about David Duchovny entering rehab for sex addiction, it has become a widely discussed topic; although sex addiction has been a problem for a large part of society for many years. The numbers are in the millions for both men and women alike. Some scientists still do not accept sex addiction as a true addiction. Some would say it's an excuse for a man or woman's infidelity. Yet again, some people would use that excuse for their own infidelities.

The term sex addiction is used to describe the behavior of a person who has an unusually intense sex drive or obsession and addiction with sex (WIKIPEDIA). It is not to be confused with the term nymphomaniac which means "excessive sexual desire by a female" (Merriam Webster).

Sex addiction is similar to other addictions in many ways. The activity itself can be used as a way to handle stress and manage ones mood. Over time the activity becomes more severe. Sex becomes the drug, weather it's through masturbation, prostitutes, pornography and the like. A sex addict's life revolves around sex and the desire to constantly have the thrill or rush of adrenaline.

With this addiction a sex addict runs the risk of physically injuring themselves or their partner(s), and others as well. When a sex addict thinks or feels they must have sex with whomever is there, the thought of STD's is obsolete; therefore putting their partner(s) and themselves at risk of A.I.D.S, herpes, etc. They also run the risk of ruining a meaningful relationship or losing loved ones.

Some sexual addictive behaviors include:

-Compulsive Masturbation

-Unsafe Sex

-Prostitution/Escorts

-Phone Sex/Cyber Sex

-Constant use of pornography

-Anonymous or Multiple partners

Most who suffer from sexual addiction are completely aware of the negative behaviors and consequences but are unable to stop without help. As with any addiction there are psychological damages as well, this may include, low self esteem, severe depression, self-hatred, self-deceit, shame, helplessness, despair, loneliness, fear of abandonment, intense anxiety, moral conflict, despair, remorse, and possible suicide.

When a sex addict is married and has children they are affected as well. Most likely the sex addict will be absent from home life, physically and emotionally. Which results in lack of a parental role model, in turn puts pressure on the partner to provide the majority of the parenting. The partner of a sex addict may develop their own psychological addictions or problems. All these factors combined can result in an unstable family environment. A child growing up in this environment is more likely to have addictive disorders.

As with all addictions there's the risk of breaking the law. Some sex addicts will end up in jail due to their compulsive sexual behavior. Financial problems can result from excessive pornography, prostitution, and phone sex. Most sex addicts have other addictions besides sex, such as alcohol or drugs. Legal problems result from voyeurism, exhibitionism, and inappropriate touching. Most cases of sexual exploitation are perpetrated by sex addicts. If you or someone you love has a sexual addiction, please get help.