Similarities Between Being Addicted to a Drug and Addicted to Sex

 Effects on the Brain

Drug addiction and sex addiction have similar effects on the brain–both primarily influence the brain’s reward system through a neurotransmitter called dopamine. When a person satisfies a need or desire that is vital to survival or reproduction, dopamine is released, causing the person to experience pleasure or euphoria. This reinforces the expectation of reward and increases the desire to engage in the underlying behavior.

The use of a drug stimulates the release of

dopamine and mimics those behaviors necessary for survival, causing a person to become increasingly reliant on drugs for the release of dopamine.

Sex addiction works in a similar manner; each time a sex addict partakes in sexual behaviors, he or she experiences a rush of endorphins, creating a powerful incentive to engage in the behavior again.

This perpetuates a vicious cycle and the person finds that he or she is driven and controlled by the desire for reward.

This is what makes it so difficult for addicts to quit and why professional help should be sought.

Dependence

Many sex addicts believe that they are in control of their behaviors, but without proper treatment, they can develop dependence. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of dependence, so that you can seek help immediately. A few signs include:

Loss of control around sexual activity.

Development of withdrawal symptoms.

Preoccupation with desire for sexual behavior.

Avoiding responsibilities and/or enjoyable activities in favor of sexual behavior.

Perhaps the most important sign that one is dependent on sex is that the person continues to partake in sexual behavior despite negative consequences caused by the behavior, such as:

Failing marriage.

Missing work.

Ruining friendships.

Health problems.

Financial problems.

Withdrawal

Withdrawal is a characteristic feature of chemical addictions and reports indicate that individuals struggling with sexual addictions frequently report experiencing withdrawal after a reduction in sexual activity. Withdrawal symptoms can include but are not limited to:

Irritability.

Craving.

Depression.

Restlessness.

Anxiety.

Guilt or shame.

It is important to note that no two sex addicts are the same and that withdrawal symptoms may vary. 

Source PsychGuides.com