Hypersexuality

Sex is something for which it is difficult to define a norm. When are we talking about a libido at an appropriate level, and when is it too high? For one person, a certain type of sexual behaviour is considered normal, accepted and normal, while for another it may cause aversion. Everyone also has different preferences, which is why it is difficult to speak of an excessive or insufficient level of sexual desire. As long as both parties in the relationship are comfortable with the frequency and type of intercourse, everything is fine.

When it comes to hypersexuality, there is also no complete consensus on the definition, but there are several theories about it. In the first view, it is defined as sex addiction. Here, the key aspects are focusing on sex excessively, loss of control over sexual behaviour, and there are also feelings of hopelessness and shame. Another theory refers to hypersexuality as compulsive sexual behaviour - these are not due to increased libido. They are a way of releasing tension, anxiety, stress. However, the sexual behaviours ultimately cause guilt and anxiety, which leads to subsequent intercourse to improve mood.

The third theory is that hypersexuality belongs to the group of impulsive sexual behaviour. Thus, a person gives in to impulses without thinking whether it is harmful to them.

The simplest theory, on the other hand, focuses on symptoms. It proclaims that the urge is excessive when it leads to problems such as:

• depression
• anxiety disorders,
• relationship problems,
• relationship breakdown,
• alcohol abuse,
• financial difficulties,
• illnesses.

When we talk about addictions, we usually think of cigarettes, alcohol, sugar or computer games. Sex addiction is not talked about much, perhaps even joked about. But the truth is that hypersexuality is a serious disorder that can lead to bigger problems.

Hypersexuality, or hyperlibidemia, is called nymphomania in women and satyriasis in men. It is a set of disorders that are associated with a loss of control over the amount of sexual fantasies and behaviour. They are devoid of emotional ties, undertaken only to regulate mood, to discharge oneself.

Among the most common symptoms of hypersexuality are those typical of addiction. In addition, one can observe an excessive intensification of sexual needs and a compulsion to fulfil them. A disorder of inhibition of drive impulses is typical. Obsessive thoughts and compulsive sexual behaviour appear. With all this, there is also a lack of satisfaction or brief satisfaction, even though sexual behaviour is undertaken frequently.

It is typical for sufferers of this condition to have sexual relationships with multiple partners. Often these are casual, anonymous persons, the acquaintance is only for the purpose of satisfaction. There is also a change in sexual preference. The affected person may start to display disturbing behaviour:

• exhibitionism,
• sadism,
• masochism,
• excessive masturbation, even in spite of the presence of sexual partners.

Excessive use of pornography, sexual services or erotic chat rooms can also be observed. In relationships with others, the loss to form a close relationship becomes clear, a lack of emotional involvement in sexual relationships emerges, and this in turn leads to failed relationships.

I can't stop looking at ... women

There can be many causes of sexual dysfunction in men. It is easiest to divide them into categories. The first of these are organic causes. Here, we distinguish, for example, hormonal disorders, cancer, diabetes, infectious diseases, mental illnesses or hypertension. Sexual behaviour is also affected by medication, e.g. antidepressants, stimulants or even being overweight. On the psychological side, the emergence of sexual dysfunction is influenced by sexual trauma and traumas, stress, disrupted partnerships, gender identity disorders or pornography addiction.

I can't stop looking at ... men

The causes of hypersexuality in women, as in men, can also have an organic and psychological dimension. The appearance of disorders is influenced by disorders of the normal functioning of the brain, of the hormonal economy. Diseases that cause problems with sexuality include Alzheimer's disease, autism, Asperger's syndrome or Encephalopathies.

Medications and other substances taken also affect the sex drive. Drugs containing anabolic steroids, as well as cocaine, amphetamines and ecstasy, are not negligible in terms of libido levels. In psychological terms, it is worth mentioning bipolar disorder, more specifically episodes of mania - sexual experimentation and risky behaviour can occur.

Causes and effects

Sexual dysfunction is difficult to clearly diagnose or determine the cause without contact with the person experiencing it. The reasons why hypersexuality occurs are attributed to the malfunctioning of neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. Psychological factors such as low self-esteem, personality disorders and life awkwardness are also significant. Past traumas also have a strong influence on the occurrence of sexual dysfunction. We are talking, for example, about abuse in childhood or adolescence. Also people who have been brought up strictly, with a predominance of punishment and prohibition, may experience disorders in the sexual area.

Untreated hypersexuality leads to a lack of satisfaction in life, breakdown of relationships, relationships, and consequently to loneliness. It can be the cause of job loss, problems in professional life.

Why is the method worth treating?

Hypersexuality is a disorder that is difficult to control. Overcoming it on its own is not a simple task and is often impossible. This is why it is so important to take the right steps towards treatment. Hypersexuality can lead to engaging in risky sexual behaviour, which in turn reduces quality of life or can even put the sufferer at risk.

Sexual dysfunction is difficult to diagnose. There is no single standard that indicates which behaviours are OK and which are already worrying. However, the moment a person starts to exhibit disturbing, compulsive behaviour, and thoughts of intercourse appear very frequently and even overshadow others - this is a sign that it is worth seeking help.

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