Some survivors unconsciously reenact their traumatic experiences through hypersexual behavior It can be an attempt to gain mastery over the traumatic event or to change the narrative surrounding their sexuality The pattern of behavior can perpetuate a cycle of hypersexual trauma. In this blog, we’ll explore why hypersexuality can emerge as a trauma response, how it relates to the brain’s attempt to regain control, and most importantly, how survivors can heal and take back their sexual lives with compassion and empowerment. “in this context, the behavior isn’t just about desire — it’s often about attempting to reclaim control, numb emotional pain, or soothe anxiety and dysregulation in the nervous system,” says flemister Read on to learn more about how hypersexuality can manifest as a trauma response — and how to heal.
People cope with trauma in different ways, and sometimes you may not even realize your behavior is linked to your past One way might be through hypersexual behavior, which can look like obsessing over sex, practicing unsafe sex practices and/or feeling unhappy after sex. Being hypersexual after trauma might not sound like a traditional coping mechanism, but for some, it’s a way to patch and polish their sense of worth and body control The aim is to rewrite their connections with intimacy, often reaching for validation or human touch as a beacon toward personal healing.
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