Sex Addiction in Barranquilla, Colombia

What is sex addiction?

Specialists describe it as compulsive sexual behavior disorder: a persistent pattern in which a person cannot control sexual urges or behaviors, such as pornography use, masturbation, encounters or dating apps, even though they cause problems and the person wants to cut back.

When is it a problem?

A high sex drive is not a disorder. It is considered a problem when the behavior becomes central to life, continues despite negative consequences for relationships, work, health or finances, and the person has tried unsuccessfully to reduce it. Evaluation should be free of moral judgment.

What is it linked to?

It often occurs alongside anxiety, depression, loneliness, substance use, ADHD or trauma, with sexual behavior used to manage difficult emotions. Sometimes it is a symptom of another condition, such as a manic episode in bipolar disorder.

How is it treated?

With psychotherapy, mainly cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps identify triggers and develop other ways to manage emotions. It may be complemented by couples therapy, support groups and, in some cases, medication prescribed by a psychiatrist. Sexually transmitted infection screening is also recommended.

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