London, Feb 12 (Mirror) The doctors treated four pensioner sex addicts last year, it has been reported.
There were more people in their 80s treated for the condition last year than those in their 20s, figures obtained by the Sun show. The new stats highlight which demographic was most likely to receive treatment for sex addiction in the UK.
In 2023, 30 men and seven women were treated for sex addiction overall, according to NHS Digital. Of those, 18 were in their 50s, four apiece in their 60s and 70s, and just three in their 20s. Over the past five years, the NHS has given treatment to 136 sex addicts.
While the condition may seem like a fairly comedic one, the impact on sufferers’ lives can be profound. One of the negative dimensions of sex addiction is how the impulse can completely dominate ones’ life.
“(One) significant consequence is the loss of time and productivity. It is not uncommon for patients to spend large amounts of time viewing pornography or cruising (also called mongering) for sexual gratification,” writes Dr Timothy Fong.
“Financial losses can mount quickly, and patients can accumulate several thousands of dollars of debt in a short amount of time. In addition, there is a long list of legal consequences, including arrest for solicitation and engaging in paraphilic acts that are illegal. One look at recent news headlines will likely reveal several stories focusing on illegal sexual activities or behaviours that jeopardize someone’s livelihood or wellbeing.”
The doctor also notes that sex addiction can put a strain on relationships due to the lopsided nature of the impulses among those involved.
“At the same time, the deception, secrecy, and violations of trust that occur with compulsive sexual behaviours may shatter intimacy and personal connections. The result is a warped view of intimacy that often leads to separation and divorce and, in turn, puts any future healthy relationship in doubt,” Dr Fong adds.
Relationship counselling service Relate describes sex addiction as any sexual activity that feels “out of control”. This could be sex with a partner, but it can also mean activities such as viewing pornography, visiting sex workers or using chat lines.
The NHS website states: “For most people, these behaviours don’t cause any serious problems. But some people are unable to control these urges and actions, despite the difficulties they may cause in their relationships, finances and professional lives.
“Some people may also have a dependency on sex and sexual activity to numb any negative emotions and difficult experiences. This can have a negative effect on the person’s quality of life and on those around them.”
The health service lists a number of options that are available for sex addicts seeking treatment for the condition. One outlet offering help is Sex Addicts Anonymous, where “recovery meetings offer an accepting, non-judgemental environment where we can share our common struggles and learn how to apply some simple principles in our everyday lives.”
