Oct 9, 2008 9:49 pm US/Eastern
Can You Be Addicted To Sex?
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
After actor David Duchovny recently stated that he was checking into rehab for sex addiction, many began asking if it was a real addiction or simply an excuse for bad behavior.
Lisa found out her husband was ordering prostitutes on-line to their home while she was away. Despite being married and
Lisa being pregnant, her husband
Douglas continued.
Lisa quickly found out
Douglas is a "sex addict."
Douglas admitted detoxing from sex addiction is very, very painful. "What provides relief is when we get a leg up on it. We turn down the flame," he said.
Many experts sex addiction is a legitimate addiction. They say compulsive sex releases a combination of chemicals including adrenaline, which drives the rush, but the main component is a different chemical in the brain that provides the pleasure.
"For sex addiction that's dopamine, and that's in the brain that makes it much more difficult to get over. Because it's not just psychological, that I just want to have a good time," said Dr. Judy Kuriansky.
In fact the same chemicals are involved in many other addictions. And while there are no exact numbers how many sex addicts there are--men appear to suffer more often than women do.
Like most addictions, a twelve step program can help addicts recognize triggers, and change behaviors. "You learn to calm your mind, in order to help yourself get over the addiction," Kuriansky said.
Sex addiction can occur as an isolated addiction, but many times it is actually a sign or symptom of a broader psychological condition like obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, or narcisstic personality.
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