Addiction RSS- Marijuana Prescription Drug Hopes for FDA Approval by 2013
- Irish Singer Sinead O’Connor in Rehab Treatment for Depression
- A New Addiction in Gambling is Growing – the Online Gambler
- Traits of Individuals Who Use Both Marijuana and Alcohol
- Remoxy Tested as Potential Alternative to OxyContin
- Mobile Meth Labs Strain Resources
Sexual Anorexia
Posted under Related Disorders on Tuesday, June 23rd, 2009
Sexual anorexia is an obsessive state in which a person deprives himself of sex and anything related to sex in an attempt to gain control over his life. With sexual anorexia, the physical, mental, and emotional task of avoiding sex dominates a person’s life. As with any other addiction, the preoccupation with avoiding sex can then become a way to cope with stress and life difficulties.
Sexual health specialists have long observed the similarities between food disorders and sexual disorders, and many professionals have noted the parallels between food anorexia and sexual anorexia. Both types feature the essential loss of self, the same distortions of thought, and the struggle for self-control. Both also involve extreme self-hatred and a sense of alienation. But while the food anorexic focuses his or her anxiety on food, the sexual anorexic puts the focus on sex.
Sexual anorexics usually experience many of the following:
• A dread of sexual pleasure
• A morbid and persistent fear of sexual contact
• Obsession with sexual matters
• Avoidance of anything connected with sex
• Preoccupation with others being sexual
• Distorted thoughts of body appearance
• Loathing of bodily functions
• Obsession with self-doubt about sexual adequacy
• Rigid, judgmental attitudes about sex
• Excessive fear and preoccupation with sexual diseases
• Shame and self-loathing over sexual experiences
• Depression about sexual inadequacy and functioning
• Self-destructive behavior to limit, stop, or avoid sex
People with sexual anorexia usually have a history of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, some form of traumatic sexual rejection, and/or other forms of child abuse and neglect. Sexual anorexia is also often accompanied by alcoholism, drug addiction, and compulsive eating. But like any other disorder, it can be treated through therapy and sometimes medication. If you or someone you know is suffering from sexual anorexia, please seek professional help immediately.
