Research carried out by anthropologists, psychologists, and psychotherapists revealed that cultural variations exist in the ways that sexuality and the idea of sex are satisfied. For instance, kissing is one of the common sexual practices in the majority of cultures. On the subject of masturbation, however, opinions vary. In certain cultures, masturbation is frowned upon completely during one's bachelorhood, and it's virtually universally accepted as an undesirable behaviour.
Masturbation is a medium for people to express their sexuality, especially in adolescence. In youth, masturbation is a normal element of sexual experimentation, but when it happens regularly, it can become dangerous. Masturbation in action becomes problematic, particularly when it is overdone and can result in hyper-sexuality or sexual addiction. It can lead to behavioural disorder or sex addiction.
The stigma associated with sexual health in India can make it challenging for people to get treatment for an addiction to masturbating. Nonetheless, being aware of the warning signs and symptoms, as well as the various therapies can provide people the confidence to take charge of their life and get the help they require.
Masturbation Addiction
It is also known as compulsive masturbation, a non-paraphilic sexual disorder. The ICD 10 classification categorises it under the category ‘excessive sexual desire’. Compulsive sexual behaviour is classified as socially deviant and non-socially deviant hypersexual behaviours, and compulsive masturbation falls in the latter category. The gender distribution of this unwanted behaviour is unknown.
In this concern, the individual has an intense need to masturbate. To masturbate is a natural aspect of human sexuality, but excessive and uncontrollable masturbation can have serious negative effects on physical, individual and social well-being.
Masturbation is regarded as a psychological hazard and harm when it develops into a habit and an individual loses all self-control or willpower to stop. The individual experiences emotional difficulties, not because of sexual behaviour, but only because s(he) can't stop from masturbating.
Causes of Masturbation
1. Curiosity after listening to the stories of masturbation shared by friends and peers
2. Access to pornographic videos
3. Sex talk with friends and peers
4. Premature puberty
1. No sexual satisfaction
2. Stress due to family issues
3. Sense of inferiority
4. Voyeuring
5. Corporal punishment
6. Loneliness, social support deprivation
Effects of Excessive Masturbation
Masturbation leads to sex addiction, which is linked to maladaptive behavioural responses that can have detrimental functional effects on a person's later years. Following effects can be seen:
Physical effects: Weakness in bones, tiredness, dark circles under eyes, reduced immunity, poor vision, dizziness.
Sexual dysfunction: Premature ejaculation, genital dysfunctionality, STIs, infertility, no sexual satisfaction.
Mental/ Psychological effects: Absentmindedness, forgetfulness, aggression, anger outbursts, irrational thoughts.
Social effects: Social isolation, reduced self-esteem, weakened self-identity
Treatment for preventing masturbation
Treating masturbation addiction requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the behavioural aspects and underlying emotional issues. Following ways can help one to regulate and deal with the excessive need for masturbating:
Counselling
In the counselling process, the individual can openly and without any judgments share the problem, explore the concern collaboratively, risk behaviours and effects associated with masturbation addiction. The professional helps in exploring more about the concerned events which lead to masturbation. The counsellor and the individual together work on the intervention to deal with and work on the core issue and control excessive masturbation. The work is followed by the evaluation on the work/ strategies implemented.
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Psychotherapy
It treats underlying mental problems that may be causing the addiction, such as sadness, anxiety, or trauma. Frequent visits with a trained therapist can offer the assistance required to get over these obstacles. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), assists patients in recognising and altering harmful thought patterns and behaviours linked to their addiction. Self-control and obsessive behaviours can be reduced and improved with CBT.
Support Teams
Acquiring membership in support groups, like Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) – it provides a feeling of commonness and common experiences. Group therapy offers a forum for talking about difficulties and getting support from those going through comparable things.
Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Take up exercise, a hobby, or social activities to take the mind off of masturbating. Taking up sports, the arts, or neighbourhood activities can help to control the cravings. Use stress-reduction ways, such as yoga, meditation, art work (music, drawing, dance, drama), and many other ways to deal with emotional triggers. These ways encourage calmness and emotional equilibrium.
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Boundary Setting
Establish a regimented daily schedule to cut down on free time and chances for compulsive behaviour. A well-thought-out schedule makes it easier to stay focused on worthwhile tasks. Establish precise guidelines for internet use and stay away from triggers like graphic material. Limiting screen time and utilising internet filters can help shield children from engaging with enticing content.
Sex Education
It is to help the child/ teen/ adult understand about gender, sexual identity, sexual awareness, appropriate behaviour, and building confidence in relationships with others. It's effective to maintain healthy behaviours, have healthy sexual behaviour, healthy lifestyle, and prevent sexuality problems.
Healthy lifestyle
Exercise has numerous benefits for health, including preventing sickness, lowering blood pressure, regulating weight, boosting confidence, and, most importantly, lowering sexual cravings. Sleeping is very important for maintaining peace of mind and preventing abnormalities in sexual conduct. One can avoid using soft blankets and pillows, and should sleep flat on the back. Food timings should be maintained, eating at the proper times because eating too late might contribute to sleep difficulties. Hobbies or leisure activities like calligraphy, swimming, hiking and other outdoor pursuits might shield from inappropriate sexual behaviour actions.
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To Conclude
Masturbation addiction is a serious condition that can significantly impact an individual's life. Being aware of the signs and symptoms is the first step towards seeking help. Through therapy, support groups, healthy coping mechanisms, and professional guidance individuals can regain control over their behaviour and improve their overall well-being. Adopting healthy habits like joining support groups, avoiding porn, and getting counselling are effective ways to treat excessive masturbation. The client's inclusion in meaningful social interactions may have been the trigger for the decrease in masturbation frequency.
Online therapy provides a convenient and private way to seek help for masturbation addiction. It allows individuals to connect with qualified therapists from the comfort of their own homes, ensuring confidentiality and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help.
Rocket Health India is dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare solutions, including mental health and sexual health services. Their team of experienced therapists and counsellors is equipped to help individuals overcome masturbation addiction through personalised treatment plans.
If you or someone you know is struggling with masturbation addiction, don't wait to seek help. Contact Rocket Health India today to schedule a confidential online therapy session and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life.
References
Desousa, Avinash. (2013). Compulsive Masturbation treated with Escitalopram. International Journal of Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 3. 64-67. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/274138020_Compulsive_Masturbation_treated_with_Escitalopram
Shavega, T. (2020) Intervention Strategies of Excessive Masturbation for a 19-Years Youth: Experience of Counseling Intervention. Open Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation, 8, 98-109. doi: 10.4236/ojtr.2020.83009. Retrieved from https://www.scirp.org/pdf/ojtr_2020081114300914.pdf
Shekarey, A. & Rostami, M. & Mazdai, Kh & Mohammadi, Ahmad. (2011). Masturbation: Prevention & Treatment. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences. 30. 1641-1646. 10.1016/j.sbspro.2011.10.318. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/271889495_Masturbation_Prevention_Treatment
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