Hypersexuality in Bipolar Disorder: It’s Not Only Sex by Robyn Tamanaha, LMFT

Hypersexuality is a symptom that some individuals living with bipolar disorder might experience during a manic or hypomanic episode, although it is not required for a diagnosis. Although sex is in the name, and some individuals might experience an increase in sexual activity, hypersexuality is not limited to sex.

Hypersexuality is identified as increased sex drive, fantasies, or behaviors (5th ed.; DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association). It’s also identified as being “more interested in sex” (Hirschfeld, 2002, The Mood Disorder Questionnaire). For some individuals, their experience with hypersexuality is mild and may not impact their life. For others, hypersexuality might become the focus of their attention and time, which affects their relationships or other major areas of their life.

Things to Consider:

• What changes do you experience leading up to your pursuit of sexual encounters?

• If you do not pursue sexual encounters, what changes do you experience internally?

• Do you become preoccupied with thinking about sex? Do you notice that you’re more interested in it than usual?

• Does your hypersexuality come out in other ways; for example, flirting?

You don’t have to do this alone. I specialize in bipolar disorder. If you are interested in receiving therapy with me, let’s schedule a free 15-minute phone consult.

My office is located in Irvine, which is near Newport Beach, Orange, Fountain Valley, Costa Mesa, Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Tustin, Seal Beach, and beyond. I work with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and Asian American & Pacific Islanders.


Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. The topics being discussed are meant as a self-help tool for you own use. It is not psychotherapy or counseling. This information is to be used based on your own judgment. If you need to speak with a professional, you should find one local to you and contact them directly.