Hypersexuality is an increased desire for sexual activity and fantasies, as well as an increased drive to seek out new sexual partners and experiences. It can result in compulsive behaviors, relationship problems, and feelings of guilt or distress.
Hypersexuality: What It Is (And Isn’t), Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Hypersexuality is an excessive preoccupation with sexual fantasies, urges, or behaviors that are distressing and difficult to control.

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Hypersexuality is a state characterized by an excessive preoccupation with sexual thoughts, fantasies, and behavior but it is not especially common.
Here’s what you need to know about hypersexuality:
- Hypersexuality is an increased interest in sexual behavior and/or activities to the point that it causes distress or impairment — affecting a person’s work, social life, or relationships with others.
- Hypersexuality refers to any sexual behavior that is considered excessive but it is not the same as “sex addiction,” which is a term commonly used to refer to a compulsive disorder that is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to engage in any type of sexual activity — even if it isn’t pleasurable.
- Although research is limited, it is estimated that hypersexuality disorder affects between 3 and 6% of the general population.
- Hypersexuality can be caused by an underlying mental condition and/or psychological disorder, trauma, brain injuries, hormonal imbalances, emotional disorders, and medications.
- It can be difficult to diagnose hypersexuality and mental health care providers may use a variety of diagnostic criteria and tests to reach a diagnosis and formulate a treatment plan.
- It is important to seek professional help if you believe you are experiencing hypersexuality, as it can cause distress and hinder relationships.
Hypersexuality is often associated with impulsivity and can lead to compulsive sexual behavior and risky sexual practices, causing significant distress and impairment in an individual’s life.
We’ll explore what it means to be hypersexual and how hypersexuality differs from “sex addiction,” along with its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.