Signs of Sex Addiction
Sexual addiction is classed as being a true addiction, in the same way as drugs and alcohol. It’s not hard to develop either, as 72 million internet users log on to an adult site every month. 12% of websites on the internet are pornographic too. 42.7% of internet users have admitted to viewing pornography, and it’s estimated that 8% of people in the US are addicted to sex in some way.
How Sex Changes the Brain
Sex is able to change the brain, and in some ways, it can be compared to drugs and alcohol. People who exhibit sexual behavior have three parts of the brain light up, which would be the amygdala, the dorsal anterior cingulate, and the ventral striatum. These same areas of the brain light up when someone takes drugs, as it revolves around reward and motivation. Like drug addicts, those who have a sex addiction rate sexual desire as being high when watching videos, even if they didn’t like the video very much. What’s interesting is how this stems from incentive motivation. This comes from the fact that people who have a drug addiction often experience a strong desire to take the drug, but they feel no pleasure from taking it. The dopamine hit and the regulation of neurotransmitters often come from the feeling of anticipation, or rush of the moment.
Sex Addiction and Risky Behaviors
Some sex addiction and risky behaviors happen to include obsessive thoughts. Someone who is struggling with a sex addiction may find themselves thinking about sex all the time. Seeking out sexual partners is not usually a sign of sex addiction, but if someone is spending an excessive amount of time or energy on sex, this could be a red flag. This could include attempting to have sex all the time, having sex, recovering from sex, or anything else similar. If a need crosses to addiction, then feelings of shame or depression can also become apparent. Studies have shown that amongst sexually compulsive men, around 28% of them showed signs of depression, as opposed to 12% of the normal population. Some other, strong signs of sex addiction can be found below.
Excluding Other Activities
Someone who is addicted to sex may find it difficult to engage in other activities. Falling behind in general responsibilities is common. You may also find that you favor sex over other forms of relaxation or even hobbies.
Excessive Masturbation
Masturbation is healthy, but excessive masturbation can be a strong sign of addiction. Masturbating to the point of discomfort, choosing to masturbate at inappropriate times or compulsive masturbation are all red flags.
Risky Behavior
Public sex, sex without protection, exhibitionism or sex with prostitutes are all red flags of sexual addiction.
Signs of Sex Addiction
There are also many signs of sex addiction that you may see in other people. It’s important to know that the person who is experiencing a sex addiction may feel a strong sense of shame and that the person is in need of help. If you witness or experience some of the following symptoms, then seeking help is imperative.
· The inability to resist or control impulses
· Having sex with more people than intended
· Needing to engage in sexual behavior more often
· Excessive energy spent on acquiring sex
· Continually partaking in sexual activity regardless of the consequences
· Unable to fulfil domestic, occupational, academic, or domestic obligations
Seek Treatment or Help
If you feel as though you are struggling with any kind of addiction, whether it is sexual, drug or alcohol, then the only thing that you have to do is get in touch with us today. When you do get in touch, we can then work with you to get to the root of your addiction so you can start to make better decisions for the future. We know that no two addictions are the same, and that is why we will always help you to understand the problems you are facing, so together, we can find ways to try and combat them once and for all. Contact us today to find out more.
