There are those who hesitate to pathologize sexuality in this way.

After all, it’s difficult to measure how much of a sex drive is too much.

Understanding Hypersexuality

Hypersexuality is defined as an increased need or pressure for sexual gratification.

Couple kissing in bed

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Unrestrained hypersexuality can place you at an increased risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

It can damage many aspects of your life if it’s left untreated.

Sexual addiction can be just as destructive as beingaddicted to chemical substances.

An estimated 3 to 6 percent of adults in the United States, predominantly male, are sexually addicted.

Consequences

These compulsive sexual behaviors can carry a high price.

Financially, they can lead to outrageous charges from prostitutes or phone sex lines.

Professionally, your behavior may cause you to lose your job.

Personally, your relationships, intimate and otherwise, could be damaged.

Health-wise, if you’re indiscriminate, sexual contacts could lead to disease.

If you’re concerned about your own behavior, talk to your doctor, or to another sexuality professional.

You may require additional sexual counseling/therapy in addition to the treatment you’re already receiving for bipolar disorder.

A review of the literature.Curr Pharm Des.

2014;20(25):4012-20. doi:10.2174/13816128113199990619