The link between hypersexuality and ADHD

The term hypersexuality describes when someone thinks about sex a lot or has sexual behaviors that cause problems and make daily life harder. Also referred to as sex addiction, hypersexuality is more than having a strong libido or enjoying sex. It often involves frequent and intense sexual urges that are difficult to control. 

We don’t yet fully understand what causes hypersexuality. But there’s some evidence to suggest a link between hypersexuality and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Exploring the underlying factors that may link these experiences can combat stigma and help you get the support you deserve.

How hypersexuality can manifest in people with ADHD

The main symptoms of ADHD are inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms can show up in many different ways. But, for some people, having ADHD can make it more difficult to control sexual thoughts and behaviors, which can lead to unwanted consequences. 

Consequences can include:

• Inattentiveness: A person who’s easily distracted may struggle to maintain intimate connections. Forgetting important details or conversations can create conflict in relationships. And because of this conflict, the person may continue to seek new sexual experiences.
• Hyperactivity: After feeling restless or bored all day, a person may crave novelty or stimulation. In response, they may turn to frequent or risky sexual behavior as a way to release uncomfortable emotions or resolve boredom.
• Impulsivity: Sometimes people have spur-of-the-moment sex that feels fun and is consensual. But impulsive sex becomes risky when it happens without thinking about safety, consent, or potential consequences. 

As you review these examples, keep in mind that the topic of human sexuality is incredibly nuanced and personal. It also has a long history of stigma. Not everyone who has ADHD will experience hypersexuality (and vice versa). But for who it does affect, it can lead to serious challenges with work, school, and relationships. 

These impairments are caused by the ways ADHD impacts the mind and body. They’re not evidence of moral failing or the result of sexual deviance. People with ADHD can become deeply focused on certain thoughts or activities for various reasons, and hypersexuality is one example of this intense focus.

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What’s known about how ADHD can cause hypersexuality

Researchers are still working to understand the connection between ADHD and hypersexuality. 

But here’s what might explain the connection between these experiences:

• Brain differences: People with ADHD often have reduced levels of brain chemicals like dopamine. Without an adequate supply of these natural, “feel-good” chemicals, a person might be more inclined to crave dopamine-inducing activities, like sex. 
• Emotional dysregulation: ADHD can cause differences in the areas of the brain that control impulses and process emotions. This could lead to unsafe sexual behavior or using sex as a way to relax, self-regulate, or avoid emotional discomfort. 
• Low self-esteem: ADHD is known to impact self-esteem and increase rejection sensitivity. For some people with ADHD, hypersexuality may provide a way to feel temporarily accepted, validated, or emotionally connected.
• Trauma: Experiencing traumatic events, like sexual abuse — especially during childhood — may contribute to the onset of ADHD or worsen ADHD symptoms. Likewise, childhood trauma may also increase a person’s risk of developing hypersexual behavior. 

Ways to manage hypersexuality with ADHD

Working with a therapist and/or psychiatrist can help you manage your ADHD symptoms. Whether you’re experiencing hypersexuality or other challenges, these professionals can help ensure that you get the right combination of support for your needs. 

But, in addition to therapy and medication (if needed), some individual coping strategies can help you manage sexual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. These include:

• Mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation is the practice of slowing down to notice (without judgment) what’s happening in your mind, body, and environment at any given moment. This process can reduce impulsive behaviors and improve self-regulation in people living with ADHD and hypersexuality.

Try this: When you feel a strong sexual urge, pause, take a deep breath, and count to 10. Ask yourself, “What am I feeling in my mind and body right now? Do I genuinely want sex? Or do I want something else (to feel less lonely, distract myself, or feel worthy)?” How might you be able to achieve that feeling in a safer way?

• Harm reduction: Instead of trying to overcome hypersexuality all at once, set some small but achievable goals that can help you stay safe. This may involve choosing a less risky replacement behavior or taking some preventative measures.

Try this: If you’re having trouble managing impulsive sexual behavior, consider what you can do ahead of time to increase your safety. This might mean scheduling a recurring STI screening or putting some contraceptives in your vehicle, purse, or wallet. You can also try setting boundaries to help you stay on track, like meeting new potential partners in a public place first.

• Group support: No matter what issue you’re facing, it can be harder to heal in isolation. Hypersexuality can be difficult to talk about due to shame and stigma. But speaking with someone you trust about what you’re going through can increase accountability and help you feel less alone.

Try this: There are support groups you can join (either in person or online) for all sorts of concerns, including ADHD. Meeting people who understand what it’s like to experience issues with impulse control and emotional regulation can be a powerful experience. These groups can provide a sense of connection and an opportunity to learn how people cope with similar challenges.

• Therapy: Working with a therapist can provide a supportive space to explore the reasons behind hypersexuality and develop personalized coping strategies. Therapy can help you understand your behaviors, manage impulses, and work through any underlying emotions or stressors contributing to the issue.

Try this: Consider finding a therapist who has experience with ADHD and impulse control challenges. They can guide you through techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness to help you manage urges and build healthier habits over time.

Find care with Rula

While hypersexuality isn’t a universal symptom of ADHD, these two experiences often coexist. Like other fixations, hypersexuality can provide temporary relief from some ADHD symptoms. But, left untreated, it can lead to unwanted consequences at school, at work, and in relationships. 

Fortunately, like other challenges associated with ADHD, it’s possible to manage hypersexuality with the right support. A behavioral therapist can help you improve your self-regulation skills and embrace your sexuality in safer ways.

At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best. 

Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.

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