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- $Unique_ID{BRK02082}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Symptoms of and Treatments for Sexual Addiction}
- $Subject{sex addiction sexual abuse masturbation prostitutes prostitution
- molestation child molesting mental health sexual relations sexual intercourse
- sexual behavior group therapy uncontrollable desire}
- $Volume{}
- $Log{}
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- Copyright (c) 1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- Symptoms of and Treatments for Sexual Addiction
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- QUESTION: I know that a driving need for tobacco and drugs is considered a
- medical condition that can be called an addiction. I also know that treatment
- is available for such people. However, when a man just can't get enough sex,
- when it is the only thing on his mind night and day, can that be called an
- addiction as well? Is there any treatment for this? Your reply is very
- important to me and I hope you will answer me soon.
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- ANSWER: When the desire for sex becomes uncontrollable and constant, it most
- certainly can be classified as an addiction. Surprisingly it is estimated
- that perhaps as many as 1 out of every 16 people may be affected, although not
- nearly that number seek the help that is available. About half of those who
- do seek assistance and counseling are married, and about 2/3 are college
- graduates. Many addicts were sexually abused as children, and their behavior
- provides them with a temporary release from the anxiety, loneliness, and
- feelings of low personal esteem which are deeply rooted in their beings.
- Their intense desires may not be satisfied with frequent relations with
- their partners but lead them to other activities to gain the sexual
- gratification they need, such as masturbation, as much as several times a day.
- Others seek prostitutes, become involved in affairs, molest children and
- expose themselves. Though they realize that these actions are wrong, they are
- unable to stop, even when they do want to avoid such behavior. Often they
- resist any attempts to discuss the problem, yet they most certainly can profit
- from the proper help.
- The most common type of therapy for sexual addiction involves group
- therapy. Within the peer group, they can face their difficulties, discuss
- their problems more openly, and find the support of others who are fighting
- the same compulsions. You may find the direction to the proper facilities for
- treatment by asking your physician for a referral, checking with the mental
- health division of your local hospital, or checking with the mental health
- resources that are frequently listed under the government agencies in your
- telephone directory. The fact that help is available, and that the problem is
- known and understood, can be the factors that convince the patient to make the
- decision to seek assistance.
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- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
-