Is Sex Addiction Real?

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While the American Psychiatric Association debates whether to add sexual addiction to the next version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), Time magazine has published a lengthy article on the topic. It's an enlightening read for anybody interested in the subject. Pictured to the left is Neil Melinkovich, who bravely shares with Time his harrowing tales of sexual excess.

It seems that economic factors always hinge on the APA's decision. A new mental disorder means more business for clinics, doctors and insurance companies. At our MensPsychology seminars, we sometimes hear the question, "is sexual addiction real?" The APA will provide a reliable answer as to whether it's a qualified mental disorder.

In practical terms, when a man is trying to assess whether or not sexual activity - or any activity - is a problem, just look at how you spend your time. If sex or the pursuit of sex or pornography, etc. is taking up most of your time to the extent that you neglect work, family, friends, girlfriend, wife, then it's a problem. If not, then maybe it's a natural activity?

With publication of the DSM 5 scheduled for May, 2013, the APA's decision whether or not to deem sexual addiction a disorder will be closely watched. Meanwhile, anybody who thinks they might have a mental health problem should see a qualified, licensed and certified health professional in their town or city. There's never any shame in going to see a doctor.