Understanding sex addiction similarities with drug addiction: The common denominators
When it comes to the understanding sex addiction similarities with drug addiction a lot more come to consideration. We are going to be consulting with doctor Dalal Akoury MD, President and founder of AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center. The tow addiction share certain things in common including the following:
Both drug and sex addiction have similar effects on the brain in the sense that they both influence the brain’s reward system through a neurotransmitter called dopamine. When a person satisfies a need or desire that is vital to survival or reproduction, dopamine is released, causing the person to experience pleasure or euphoria. This reinforces the expectation of reward and increases the desire to engage in the underlying behavior.
- The use of a drug stimulates the release of dopamine and mimics those behaviors necessary for survival, causing a person to become increasingly reliant on drugs for the release of dopamine.
- Sex addiction on the other hand works in a similar manner; each time a sex addict engages in sexual behaviors, they will experience a rush of endorphins, creating a powerful incentive to engage in the behavior again.
- This perpetuates a vicious cycle and the person finds that he or she is driven and controlled by the desire for reward.
Understanding sex addiction similarities with drug addiction: Dependence
Even though many sex addicts are convinced that they are in control of their behaviors, this is not always the case. It means that if proper treatment is not done immediately, they can develop dependence. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of dependence, so that you can seek help immediately. Like for instance, loss of control around sexual activity, withdrawal symptoms and preoccupation with sexual behavior.
Understanding sex addiction similarities with drug addiction: Withdrawal
Withdrawal is a characteristic feature of chemical addictions and reports indicate that individuals struggling with sexual addictions frequently report experiencing withdrawal after a reduction in sexual activity. Withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Anxiety.
- Craving.
- Depression.
- Guilt or shame.
- Irritability.
- Restlessness.
It is important to note that no two sex addicts are the same and that withdrawal symptoms may vary.
Sex addiction and mental health disorders
There seems to be a high correlation between sex addiction and psychiatric conditions, particularly mood, anxiety and personality disorders. The correlation between depression and sex addiction is one of the reasons that antidepressants can be useful when treating sex addiction.
Clinical depression, which is often co-occurring with sex addiction, is a serious mental health illness that, if left untreated, can be life-threatening. Therefore if you are struggling with any of these conditions, then you can call on doctor Akoury today for a one on one professional’s discussion. In the meantime the following are some of the typical symptoms:
- Fatigue.
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness.
- Feelings of hopelessness.
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities.
- Persistent sad, anxious, or empty mood.
- Restlessness, irritability.
- Sleeping too much or too little.
- Suicide thoughts or attempts.
Understanding sex addiction similarities with drug addiction: The common denominators
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