Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by episodes of depression and mania. Manic episodes consist of symptoms that include (but are not limited to) increased self-esteem, increased risky activities, excitability, and grandiosity. The symptoms that occur during a manic episode make it easier for individuals to experience hypersexuality.
Individuals experiencing hypersexuality may deal with symptoms such as a heightened interest in sex, a higher sexual confidence, an increase in sexual experiences and partners, sexual compulsivity, a willingness to experiment with different sexual practices, and engaging in risky sexual behaviors. It can be extremely difficult for individuals as they struggle to feel satisfied and manage the urges they have. Living with a mood disorder can be challenging.
Hypersexuality can be challenging because it affects the individual and their partner. People can live with and manage bipolar disorder and symptoms like hypersexuality. The first step is to identify the problem, and only then can one begin to seek out meaningful solutions.
Engage in Therapy
Therapy is a helpful way to manage a mood disorder. Hypersexuality can be a symptom of the disorder. Addressing the disorder can limit the severity of hypersexuality and keep it under control. It can be helpful to discuss hypersexuality with a therapist as well. There are times when the symptoms point to a sexual addiction. Having a professional involved can help individuals understand the issues present and address them.
Consider Medication
Some medications can help people manage symptoms of bipolar disorder. Medications address the depression and the mania aspects of bipolar which help with symptoms of hypersexuality. It is important to work with a professional through this process because individuals can also experience hyposexuality, which includes a decreased desire for sex. Finding the right balance is important for each individual.
Identify and Avoid Potential Triggers
There are potential triggers that can push individuals into depressive episodes or manic episodes. For example, a person might realize that times of high stress at work often result in a manic episode. Managing their stress may help them avoid some manic episodes. It is also helpful to identify symptoms or warning signs that a manic episode or depressive episode is imminent. For some people, hypersexuality may be an indicator that a manic episode is on the horizon. Having an awareness of triggers and symptoms can help individuals get ahead and manage the mood disorder.
Develop and Utilize Healthy Coping Skills
Individuals with bipolar disorder need to have healthy ways of managing their symptoms. Self-medicating through alcohol, drugs, or sex might be some common methods people use to cope, but these can often cause more harm than good. People can work to identify strategies for self-care in general, as well as during depressive or manic episodes. Utilizing healthy bipolar coping skills can assist in preventing and managing symptoms effectively.
Mood disorders can be difficult for people to live with. However, when most people can identify a treatment plan that works for them, they can manage symptoms of the disorder and live the life they want to live.
Sources:
- Kopeykina, I., Kim, H. J., Khatun, T., Boland, J., Haeri, S., Cohen, L. J., & Galynker, I. I. (2016). Hypersexuality and couple relationships in bipolar disorder: A review. Journal of Affective Disorders, 195, 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2016.01.035
- Koós, M., Bőthe, B., Orosz, G., Potenza, M. N., Reid, R. C., & Demetrovics, Z. (2021). The negative consequences of hypersexuality: Revisiting the factor structure of the Hypersexual Behavior Consequences Scale and its correlates in a large, non-clinical sample. Addictive Behaviors Reports, 13, 100321. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.abrep.2020.100321
- Krogh, H. B., Vinberg, M., Mortensen, G. L., Skakke, D., Nielsen, D., & Giraldi, A. (2023). Bipolar disorder and sexuality: a preliminary qualitative pilot study. International journal of bipolar disorders, 11(1), 5. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40345-023-00285-9
- Modern Recovery Services. (2023, August 2). Coping skills for bipolar disorder: Benefits, techniques & exercises. https://modernrecoveryservices.com/wellness/coping/conditions/bipolar-disorder/
- Professional, C. C. M. (n.d.). Bipolar disorder. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9294-bipolar-disorder
Michelle is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist working as a counselor for students, faculty, and staff at Abilene Christian University in Texas. She works with athletes, bridging the gap between athletics and mental health at ACU. Michelle ran her own private practice in Austin, Texas where she worked with a diverse population, including couples and families.
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