“Speaking of addiction to masturbation, and contrary to what one might think, it is not the frequency that is the important point,” insists Dr. Bou Jaoudé. “It is rather when the simple desire gives way to a real need. “
For the sexologist, “the subjects affected (mainly men) are most often addicted to enjoyment and not to the gesture itself. They are looking for the discharge of hormones and neurotransmitters of well-being that orgasm provides. It’s a natural drug. “
What consequences?
Contrary to what Samuel Auguste Tissot said in a work dedicated to onanism in the 19th century, masturbation does not cause disease. “This masturbation drive does not cause harm, it is revealing,” continues Gilbert Bou Jaoudé. “It is the consequence and not the cause of anxiety or latent depression for example. The masturbatory act becomes, in a way, a treatment that the person prescribes for himself “.
Problem, this dependence comes from the vicious circle. Because stress or discomfort lead the subject to masturbate to calm down. What follows is a kind of shame, disappointment and guilt that increases discomfort … and leads to caressing yourself to relieve yourself again and again.
To the question, “can there be a risk for the couple?” »Dr. Bou Jaoudé provides an answer from Normand. “No, if this addiction is used as a simple anti-stress, it does not change anything. On the other hand, from the moment when the pleasure obtained by masturbation becomes more important than during sexual intercourse, then the risk of unbalancing the relationship becomes real. For example, masturbation can be badly experienced by the partner who sees it as a reflection of her man’s sexual dissatisfaction. “
What support ?
“The person who suffers from it will find it difficult to consult, they will be uncomfortable. It’s normal. But it’s also a good thing. It’s a sign that she’s spotted something’s wrong. “It is therefore advisable to bring up the subject with someone you trust, be it the attending physician, an addictologist, a psychiatrist, a sexologist, a psychologist …
From then on, the specialist can determine the cause (stress, depression, anxiety, etc.). He will also try to assess whether the patient is not subject to other “socially accepted” addictions such as being addicted to sport or work. Or chemicals (alcohol, drugs, medicines, etc.). It is indeed common that “addiction to masturbation is accompanied by another dependence that the patient does not perceive”.
On the treatment side, subtlety is essential. “Unlike alcohol, you can’t afford to take away all your cravings. This should not go through behavioral therapies. And why not a drug treatment to reduce anxiety? “
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Source: Destination Santé
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