How to Stop Thinking About Sex? 6 Scientific Ways to Stop Sexual Thoughts
Sexual thoughts are very deep-rooted in human biology, psychology, and culture. For some, they are natural and an occasional part of life. For some, intrusive thoughts about sexual distress once they are causing daily functions to be altered. If ever you find yourself asking, «Why do I think about sex all the time?» or «All I think about is sex,» then you aren’t alone there. These generally continue, and one might need intentional strategies to deal with them. This blog will discuss why these sexual thoughts begin and share 6 scientifically-based techniques on how to stop thinking about sex. These methods will allow you to regain control and create a more balanced mental space. Is It Normal to Think About Sex Every Day? People usually think about sex every day. In the past year, up to 80% of males and 42% of women in the US have viewed pornography. Continuous consumption of such material can mold the reward system of the brain, therefore leading to a higher concentration on sexual thoughts or desires. Eventually, this might make the brain more sensitive to sexual cues, thus making it easier for sexual thoughts to arise in daily situations. Besides these, other hormonal and psychological factors like stress, boredom, or emotional needs may also bring about the frequent thought of sex. A balance in understanding the cause of these thoughts would help manage them. Still, if such thoughts interfere with activities or cause discomfort, it’s a good idea to consider some strategies to help control them. Why Should Sex Thoughts Be Controlled? Sexual thoughts are those mental images or fantasies that may lead to sexual activity. Although sexual thoughts are part of the everyday experience of humankind, they could become problematic if they are frequent, distressing, or challenging to control. Many wonder how to stop sexual thoughts, especially when they feel that they’re constantly thinking about sex. Why Do We Have Sexual Thoughts? Sexual thoughts arise due to biological, psychological, and social factors. Knowledge of these causes helps one handle thoughts more efficiently. Among some of the most important contributors are: Frequency and Individual Differences The frequency of sexual thoughts varies among people. The average man says he has more sexual thoughts than a woman, possibly because of the difference in hormone levels and sociocultural aspects. However, this is not a rule for all individuals, as one’s mental health, upbringing, and personal values could also dictate how often sexual thoughts may occur. When do sexual thoughts become problematic? For many, sexual thoughts are transient and harmless. But it is time to take corrective measures when they are intrusive and constant and disrupt one’s ability to focus or have a productive life. You might come to think like, «How to stop thinking about sex,» and get frustrated, and so the loop begins. While regular, occasional sexual thoughts can be such a nuisance when: If any of these symptoms resonate, it may be time to find solutions to regain control over your thoughts and mental focus. Should You Control Sex Feelings? Sexual thoughts are produced by various brain regions interacting with each other. The Role of Hormones Hormones are significant contributors to sexual thoughts. Some of the major hormones in play are as follows: Why Am I Thinking of Sex Right Now? If you find yourself often thinking about sex, you might wonder, «Why do I think about sex all the time?» Several factors could be at play: 1. Biological Causes 2. Psychological Triggers 3. Cultural and Environmental Factors 6 Ways to Stop Thinking of Sex Well, now that we understand what generates those sexual thoughts, let’s dig into scientifically tested ways of terminating the process and getting back on track in your brain. 1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness is awareness of being in the present time and not identifying with any given thought. Once you are engaged in mindfulness practice, you learn how to stop thinking about sex through your ability first to notice the urge and then be able to dismiss it. 2. Stay Physically Active Physical activity helps manage the body’s stress response and can reduce sexual thoughts by shifting focus onto your body and well-being. One of the best ways how to stop sexual thoughts or being occupied in your mind with such sexual thoughts is to exercise. 3. CBT, or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy One type of psychotherapy that can assist in altering and combating intrusive thoughts is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It will use a sequence of structured exercises to help someone develop more helpful thought patterns and behaviors. CBT enables you to identify such repeating thought patterns — «all I think about is sex» and replace them with healthier coping habits, such as focusing on the work at hand 4. Reduction of Digital Stimuli The internet is the largest source of sexually explicit material. Limiting exposure to such triggers can help to reduce intrusive sexual thoughts. 5. Systematic Routine Having a routine structure can help you declutter all the idle time. An unstructured routine has more possibilities of intrusive thoughts. Organizing your day lets you stay busy and focused on meaningful and creative activities. 6. Seek Therapist In cases of excessive sexual thoughts overwhelming a client’s mind and cannot be stopped, then therapy is always there to help. Therapy can be CBT, DBT, or sex therapy to come up with tailored solutions to your behaviors. Examples of therapists include sex therapists and cognitive behavioral therapy therapists who would help tailor guidance on how to stop thinking about sex in ways that work for you. Examples 1. The Digital Detox A 25-year-old professional was overcome by persistent sexual ideation owing to excessive screen time and exposure to social media. Within three months, they got control over focus through a digital detox and an application that blocks pornography. 2. Mindfulness as a Method of Change A college student reported intrusions of intrusive sexual thoughts decreased by 50% after six weeks by practicing meditation, mindfulness, and journaling. Their success was through