The term ‘hyper-sexuality’ can be defined as “a condition in which the sexual instinct is abnormally strong” as derived from the Oxford English Dictionary. However, this definition is slightly vague and does not include certain significant aspects of hyper-sexuality which is that it is often a trauma response, or an unhealthy coping mechanism. It is unwanted. It can be dangerous. It can be overwhelming. It mainly occurs within survivors of sexual assault or COCSA victims. 

As a society, we need to talk about hypersexuality and its manifestations more. Seeking out frequent sex, talking about it often, sex being on your mind a lot can all be examples of some ways in which hypersexuality takes form. And oftentimes, it is used as a response and coping mechanism in regard to control. Control over taking back what was stolen from you: your sexual choices. Within survivors, it could feel like a reclamation of power, however it can put people in dangerous, vulnerable situations as they are seeking it. Akanksha Chandele (trauma therapist) discusses hypersexuality and highlights how after experiencing the trauma of SA, people want to rebuild that sense of autonomy over themselves and reclaim their control. 

When you have been exposed to unwanted sexual behaviours, especially in your childhood during key development stages, it could potentially mess with ideas of self worth by linking them to sex. Perhaps you only feel valued after a sexual activity. 

It is also important to acknowledge hyper-sexuality as a valid trauma response and actually acknowledge that it is one. People respond to trauma in different ways and different lights and the lack of open discussion in regard to this one can cause further isolation for those who experience it, as well as general confusion as to why they experience high sex drives. A 2021 study addresses how “problematic sexuality is often due to traumatic experiences” reiterating hyper-sexuality as an inherent trauma response. It is also significant to comprehend that having a high sex drive is not the same as hyper-sexuality, as the latter invades one’s mind in a negative manner. It is compulsive. 

Considering how we are also in the 21st century and there are still vast levels of slut shaming, specifically oriented to women, is insane to think about and can sometimes make those who struggle with hyper-sexual tendencies further isolated. It is a disturbing outlook to sexually brand somebody with these derogatory terms and can often induce victim-blaming and stigma surrounding this trauma response. 

Hyper-sexuality is not talked about enough. And it is a topic that should be talked about.