It’s a common enough question in our Stage-4 pubescent years, and is generally without concern. But when “Do I masturbate too much?” is posed in adulthood it bears further reflection. Excessive self-stimulation of this nature could be characterized as compulsive masturbation,which some may crudely label as masturbation addiction. Research finds that compulsive masturbation can be found in up to 75% of individuals who suffer from hypersexuality. Hypersexuality is a form of overpowering sexual behavior marked by an intense focus on sexual urges that cannot be controlled, resulting in negative consequences in one’s life.
It must be noted that what constitutes “too much” is quite often dependent upon whether or not someone experienced a staunchly conservative and/or religious upbringing, and so forth. We’re going to remove perception and subjectivity from the equation in today’s discussion and instead focus on consequences and cooccurring variables. If you answer in the affirmative to one or more of the following it’s worth speaking with a behavioral health professional (confidentially) to find out if intervention for hypersexuality or another related condition is required. Let’s review.
6 Other Questions to Answer that May Determine Whether or Not Your Perceived Masturbation ‘Addiction’ is a Hypersexuality Disorder
Are You Doing it to Escape Other Feelings?
Do you turn to masturbation to escape negative feelings that may be associated with anxiety and depression? This practice is about more than “distraction” as there are chemical reactions involved that you need to understand.
Dopamine, which is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter in the brain that is responsible for feelings of pleasure, satisfaction, and motivation, is the key link in the chain. Low levels of dopamine have been linked to anxiety and depression among other mood disorders. The physical act of masturbation causes the body to release dopamine, which is why it appears to be temporarily effective in managing anxiety and depression. However, it’s a fleeting fix often followed by feelings of shame that can make matters worse. As time passes, the brain and body become accustomed to the chemical response of masturbation. Consequently, frequency is increased in order to sustain the same relative response. From there, compulsive behavior is formed which is self-reported as masturbation addiction.
Simply put, if you’re using masturbation as an escape, you’re only diving deeper into a hole of despair.
Does it Negatively Impact Your Day to Day Responsibilities?
Does frequent masturbation negatively disrupt daily activities and responsibilities? Does it make you late and/or impact productivity at work? Are you unable to focus during study, meetings, or other activities that require concentration because you’re thinking about how and when you can get away and self-stimulate? This is a more clear symptom of a hypersexuality disorder.
Does it Impact Intimacy with Others?
There’s an uncomfortable irony in the fact that sexual self-stimulation can rob someone of the opportunity to enjoy actual sex with a romantic partner. Compulsive masturbation is linked to dissociation from partners and sexual desire for those partners, causing the compromised individual to choose it over intimate relationships. This shows that self-stimulation of this nature is really not about sex after all.
Are You Frequently Pairing it with Substance Abuse?
If masturbation frequently accompanies use/abuse of alcohol or drugs, there may be an underlying behavioral health issue at play that factors in the dopamine equation that we addressed above. Research shows that individuals with compulsive sexual behavior disorders (CSBDs) are more likely to qualify for substance use disorders (SUDs) when compared to those without CSBDs.
Is it Having an Adverse Physical Impact?
Aside from adolescent myths regarding consequences of frequent masturbation (blindness, hairy palms, etc.) there can be some negative physical manifestations that are symptomatic of compulsivity. Chaffing, redness, and soreness of the genitals are the most obvious. There may also be reduced sexual sensitivity which may compound one’s ability to enjoy intimacy with a romantic partner.
Have You Tried to Take a Break, Unsuccessfully?
Unlike with other disorders such as those concerning problem gambling or alcohol abuse, one needn’t abstain from the activity to maintain wellness. In fact, sexual self-stimulation is a part of a healthy and fulfilling life, as long as it can be controlled. And therein lies the question – have you tried to take a break, and not been able to abstain for more than a few days? If so, you may struggle with hypersexuality.
Note: Please understand that outright abstinence is not the solution. It’s this manner of thinking that makes the NoFap movement a potentially dangerous practice, as it neglects the root of the compulsion and can backfire on mental health.
Other Articles You May be Interested In:
- Signs and Symptoms of Porn Addiction
- Pornography Addiction in Women Should Be Taken Seriously Too
- Porn Addiction in Athletes
- Porn Addiction in the Military
- Healthier Alternatives to Pornography
If you have identified with any of the above, or have other concerns related to compulsive sexual behavior, connect to a Kindbridge care coordinator via one of the contacts provided below.
Concerned About Compulsive Sexual Behavior?
CALL +1 (877) 426-4258
OR
Email [email protected]
