Is masturbating every night .. a sign for worry? Am I addicted? Pls help

[prag2]

I am a 31 year old man. I have been masturbating since the age of 11. I usually masturbate once every night before sleep. I know that this is not healthy and it some what makes me feel guilty. I am a research student and kind of on my own living alone. When I am home I don't masturbate as often. I understand that it does not have any negative physical consequences. But after reading some articles on-line. I am worried that I may be marginally classified as a sex-addict. I am trying to kick this habit, since I am guilt ridden when I try to speak to women and my self-esteem does seem to be low. I am also on medication for anti-depressants and wondering if there may be some connection.. I am a phd student in physics so I don't want my focus to be affected by this ... now I am thinking if this habit has really undermined my abilities ? So please any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[Hidden]

Dear prag2,

Masturbation is completely normal. The frequency is down to the individual and once a day is certainly not uncommon, with teenagers often masturbating several times a day.

You should not feel guilty about it and it does not make you a sex addict. It is the only truly safe sex!

If you have self-esteem issues and depression that relate to your sexual behaviour it may well be worth seeing a specialst counsellor or sex therapist (psychosexual counsellor). They are very used to talking to people will all sorts of sex and relationship related problems. Your GP should be able to refer you or some Sexual Health/Genitourinary Medicine clinics have this service.

Kind regards

[Sexologist]

Dear Prag2,

As thegreenhouse mentioned, Masturbation is a normal and healthy sexual activity for both men and women. Adequate sexual activity is required for the maintenance of mental well being. Hence do not worry about it.

It is considered excessive when it interferes with your day to day activities.

best regards

Dr A CHAKRAVARTHY

Consultant in Reproductive & Sexual Medicine

eSexologist.com

[joaparra]

masturbation is good. u are alone, no partner so no other outlet. u do not need hookers to take care of your physical needs, so keep on jacking. someday when u get a partner u will find the need to masturbate less. one thing for sure is to keep a healthy prostate and sexual male health masturbation to ejaculation is necessary for young men like u. use it or lose it is my moto. and I am 58

[anand2013]

I have to ejaculate ever iy day I have sex every other day and when I am not having sex I dose masturbate I am 54 years