Sexual anorexia

Sexual Anorexia is a condition characterized by an obsessive state in which the physical, mental, and emotional task of avoiding sex dominates one's life. Like anorexia nervosa, which refers to the compulsive avoidance of food, sexual anorexia involves the intense fear of sexual contact or intimacy, leading to severe distress or impairment in important areas of functioning. The term was popularized in the late 20th century, drawing parallels between the compulsive avoidance of food in anorexia nervosa and the avoidance of sexual intimacy in sexual anorexia.

Causes and Symptoms

The causes of sexual anorexia are multifaceted and can include psychological, biological, and social factors. Trauma, particularly sexual trauma, is a significant risk factor. Other contributing factors may include negative attitudes towards sex instilled during upbringing, religious or moral beliefs about sexuality, body image issues, and mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression.

Symptoms of sexual anorexia can vary widely but often include:

• Extreme fear or anxiety about sexual contact or intimacy
• Obsessive behaviors or thoughts aimed at avoiding sexual situations
• Lack of sexual desire or interest, which is distressing to the individual
• Difficulty forming or maintaining romantic relationships
• Severe distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning due to the avoidance of sexual intimacy

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of sexual anorexia is challenging, as it is not officially recognized as a distinct disorder in major diagnostic manuals such as the DSM-5 or ICD-10. However, mental health professionals may diagnose the condition based on the presence of its characteristic symptoms and the significant distress or impairment they cause.

Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) being particularly effective. Therapy aims to address the underlying causes of the fear and avoidance of sex, such as trauma or negative beliefs about sexuality. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to treat co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression.

Impact

The impact of sexual anorexia can be profound, affecting not only the individual's mental and emotional health but also their relationships and overall quality of life. The fear and avoidance of intimacy can lead to loneliness, depression, and a sense of isolation. It can also strain or end romantic relationships, causing further distress.

See Also

• Anorexia nervosa
• Sexual dysfunction
• Intimacy avoidance
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy