With conditions like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation and other disorders hampering sexual functioning on the rise, the lesser conversed about topic is that of an exceedingly high sex drive. This is often characterised by a desire of overindulgence or an overindulgence in sexual activities of any kind or even random, frequent erections. Normally, it is not considered such a grave issue that cannot be solved through treatment but only becomes a problem when sexual urges become uncontrollable or lead to sexual compulsions.

This is tricky because desiring sex more than usual does not imply that you are a pervert. It is completely normal and human. It is only unchecked sexual behaviour that can negatively impact your personal or professional environments, increase a sense of secrecy to be maintained around it causing you stress, morph into loneliness and an inability to forge healthy sexual and non-sexual relationships in your future. What can you do?

For starters, you can attempt to understand why your libido levels are way higher than usual. Many a time, it could be related to high levels of hormones such as serotonin and dopamine responsible for regulating your mood. These alterations have been observed in patients with Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy as well as dementia. Other times, even excess exercise can cause your libido levels to shoot up.

The most effective way to cope with this situation is to talk about it. Seems simple, doesn’t it? Whether the first step involves opening up to a friend or trusted adult, it is important. For extreme cases a licensed therapist, psychologist or specialist in the field is strongly advised.

Interrupting your urges may help too. Just like in the case of an alcohol or cigarette addiction you keep yourself busy or occupy your mind with diverse thoughts, try the same here. If you are in a relationship, communicate with your partner and build trust on both sides. Even channeling your energy into performing creative activities can help.

Anaphrodisiacs like soy, wild lettuce and the like have opposite effects to that of aphrodisiacs. Make sure you incorporate them into your diet and lifestyle. In addition, lots of unrealistic sexual expectations can arise from porn-addictions resulting from a high sex drive. So work hard on finding satisfying sex that takes the health of all parties involved, into account.

Medically reviewed by Rishabh Verma, RP