BIPOLAR AND HYPERSEXUALITY

BIPOLAR DISORDER IS A MOOD DISORDER

in which a person experiences drastic mood swings – from feeling elated, energetic, and risky to feeling sad and disinterested. These mood swings, called episodes of mania and depression, are the classic signs of bipolar disorder.

When someone with bipolar disorder is experiencing a manic episode, impulsive, reckless sexual behaviors and significantly increased sexual drive are quite common. Such hypersexual behavior is often a warning sign of a manic episode.

HYPERSEXUALITY

is defined as a dysfunctional preoccupation with sexual fantasies, urges, or behaviors that are difficult to control. While hypersexuality is a sign of bipolar disorder, it can also be referred to as compulsive sexual behavior or sexual addiction. The compulsive behavior can cause distress and can negatively affect a person’s job, health, or relationships.

It is not unusual for individuals to experience a heightened sense of sexuality during a manic episode. While an increased interest in sexuality on its own does not present a problem, when the heightened sense of sexuality is paired with other symptoms of bipolar mania – such as impulsivity, risk-taking, and poor judgement – the behavior can be destructive to many aspects of day-to-day life.

It is unclear why some individuals with bipolar disorder do not experience symptoms of hypersexuality and some do not. Other common symptoms of mania in bipolar include overspending, not sleeping, trouble concentrating, or speaking quickly and in a scattered manner.

Individuals with bipolar disorder who do experience hypersexuality may engage in the following behavior:

·         Have multiple sexual partners

·         Become preoccupied with thoughts of sex

·         Have one-night stands

·         Be very consumed with pornography

·         Notice a difference in their sexual behaviors

·         Engage in other reckless behaviors, like driving too fast or gambling

HOW DO YOU TREAT HYPERSEXUALITY?

Hypersexuality with bipolar disorder isn’t a separate condition that needs its own treatment – it’s a symptom of bipolar disorder. Once the condition is successfully treated and mood swings and symptoms are under control, those hypersexual feelings will dissipate. Treatment usually involves medication such as mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, as well as psychotherapy to include cognitive behavioral therapy.

ONCE THE DISORDER IS UNDER CONTROL,

individuals with bipolar disorder often react differently to sex and their past behaviors. Individuals will often experience a lot of regret for past behavior because they’ve put themselves in very bad situations. When they are well, they reflect on that and experience regret and remorse.

Hypersexuality can be one of the most difficult and challenging symptoms for both people living with bipolar disorder and those close to them. Sometimes this results in broken marriages and relationships. Both individuals in a relationship can suffer if these urges result in infidelity: the partner with bipolar disorder may feel distraught over having hurt their partner, who in turn feels confused and angry after having been cheated upon.

HYPERSEXUALITY CAN ALSO NEGATIVELY AFFECT A COUPLE’S SEX LIFE.

Studies have found decreased levels of sexual satisfaction associated with the diagnosis.

A study completed in 2016 found a high prevalence of comorbidity between substance use disorders and bipolar disorder – meaning that a person is experiencing some form of both conditions simultaneously. The study found substance abuse disorders to be quite common in people with bipolar disorder. Stimulants in particular can be problematic. Stimulants may mimic symptoms of mania. Additionally, alcohol or cannabis can be linked to poor judgement, which may further contribute to hypersexual behavior.