Withdrawal from Masturbation Addiction is Real
Published:
Oct 15, 2024
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08:12 p.m.
ET
The DSM-5 hasn't recognized masturbation addiction. Regardless, this disorder can negatively impact an individual's personal life, career, and relationships. It's also possible to experience withdrawal symptoms. This guide will explore masturbation addiction, including the withdrawal and relapse phases.
What is Masturbation Addiction?
Masturbation addiction is an overwhelming urge to masturbate despite the consequences. It's one form of compulsive sexual behavior (CSB), which includes porn addiction and sex addiction. This behavioral condition is categorized by preoccupied fantasies, impulsive behaviors, and strong urges that can be emotionally distressing. It can result in poor mental health and social relationships.
Masturbation addiction occurs when it begins to interfere with or negatively impact important areas of a person's life. It can cause emotional disconnect, uncontrollable urges, health problems, and interpersonal issues. It can also lead to low self-esteem, embarrassment, guilt, and shame.
Potential withdrawal symptoms from Masturbation Addiction
Since masturbation addiction is a behavioral disorder, withdrawal symptoms are possible. Some of these problems can stem from the increased dopamine levels in the brain, which trigger the brain's reward system.
Withdrawal symptoms can include an overwhelming urge to masturbate, feelings of irritability, or anxiety. These signs are a result of the chemical imbalances during the recovery process. Other individuals might experience difficulty concentrating, insomnia, and physical discomfort in the groin area from chronic masturbation.
Strategies for avoiding withdrawal and relapse while trying to stop masturbating
Recovery is possible for individuals struggling with masturbation addiction. The best strategy for approaching the withdrawal or relapse phase is to take a holistic approach to your recovery. First, remove any triggers from your home or block access to adult content across all gadgets.
Redirect your attention to a hobby or interest you enjoy. You might want to take part in group activities or clubs. By shifting your focus to productive activities, you can decrease the urge to masturbate.
Porn addiction relapse is possible during this phase. Don't think of yourself as a failure. Remember that sexual urges are a normal part of human behavior. Avoid feelings of guilt, shame, or resentment, and focus instead on how to tackle your disorder.
Treatment Options for Masturbation Addiction
You might need professional help if you struggle with compulsive masturbation. You could speak to your healthcare provider or mental health professional. The most common form of treatment for masturbation addiction is a combination of counseling, group therapy, and medication.
Counseling could happen individually or with couples impacted by the addiction. Therapy allows individuals to see the underlying causes of their condition. The amount of therapy required depends on the severity of the addiction.
There's no prescribed medication for masturbation addiction. However, certain types of medication can help curb the symptoms. Your physician might also prescribe medication to treat anxiety or depression.
Virtual therapy is another option for masturbation addiction. It incorporates all of the above components. Birches Health works with individuals who struggle with various behavioral conditions.
Licensed clinicians who have experience with both sex and porn addiction are available to help. The starting point is to take a free and confidential self-assessment.
You can take the first step with Birches Health today:
You can also call 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to connect with the Birches team right away.
This is an accessible form of treatment. Individuals can schedule sessions around work or school. Virtual therapy also allows them to maintain anonymity. There's no fear of running into someone you know at the clinic or doctor's office.
This method allows individuals to receive therapy at home. It also offers access to educational resources, individualized treatment, and relapse and prevention plans. Virtual therapy makes it possible for individuals to work on their mental health at home.
Warning Signs of Masturbation Addiction
Sexual desire is an aspect of being human. However, compulsive masturbation could indicate you have an addiction. The following warning signs are ones you should look out for:
Preoccupation with sexual fantasies or masturbation
Isolating yourself to spend more time to masturbate
Engaging in risky behavior, such as masturbating at work or in a public place
Experiencing guilt and shame before, during, and after masturbation
Using masturbation to relieve anxiety, depression, and other negative feelings temporarily
Decreased interest in hobbies and activities
Dissatisfaction with relationships and sex life
Career or studies in jeopardy due to masturbation addiction
How Common is Masturbation Addiction?
Masturbation is a common issue in romantic relationships, according to a study from the International Society of Sexual Medicine. A quarter of men ranging from 18 to 59 years old masturbate anywhere from weekly to a few times a month. These men were all in committed relationships at the time of the study.
In addition, close to 20% of men masturbated up to four times per week. In that same study, women admitted to masturbating less than once per week. Keep in mind that not all people who masturbate frequently have a compulsive disorder.
Some hypersexual people don't have masturbation or sex addiction. There is no recommended healthy amount for masturbation. It's when masturbation becomes a central focus in your life that it can become a problem. In this case, speaking with a mental health professional would be best.
Sources:
Is Masturbation Addiction Possible? - VeryWell Health
What to Know about Masturbation Addiction - VeryWell Mind
What is the “normal” frequency of masturbation? - International Society for Sexual Medicine
