Clothing Fetishism: Seeking Help Without Stigma

Q: Clothing Fetishism: Seeking Help Without Stigma

Hello, handsome： Based on your description, it does indeed show signs of fetishism. <br>Initially, it may have started out of curiosity, but over time, a connection has formed between female items and sexual impulses, leading to sexual arousal and the desire to masturbate wheneve

If you have a condition known as "drapetomania" or a strong desire to wear specific clothing, it is important to seek guidance from a mental health professional. They can help you understand your feelings and provide support or therapy

This symptom started in my childhood.
I accidentally discovered a sanitary pad and, out of curiosity, opened it.
Suddenly, I felt that such items could satisfy my sexual desires.
Over the years, I have purchased many female items for self-pleasure.
I realize that among many men, I am quite rare in using female items for masturbation.
During the act, I envision myself as a woman.
Although I feel disgusted afterward and want to quit, I still find myself tempted to touch or smell female products or clothing, which inevitably leads to masturbation.
However, I am not homosexual, nor do I wish to transition.
This has been going on for over four years.
Should I see a doctor? If I do, will I need to obtain a mental health disability certificate? I just want to quit this habit and do not want any record of personal disability or privacy issues.
Can all of this be kept confidential?

Shuai Ge, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/18

Dr. Wang Yazhen reply Psychiatry

Hello, handsome: Based on your description, it does indeed show signs of fetishism.
Initially, it may have started out of curiosity, but over time, a connection has formed between female items and sexual impulses, leading to sexual arousal and the desire to masturbate whenever you see or think about them.
This issue is not classified as a chronic mental illness, so it does not meet the criteria for applying for a disability handbook.
Your medical records will be documented in your treatment history and will remain confidential, with no risk of data leakage.
However, if you need to apply for health insurance, the insurance company may require you to disclose your medical history accurately; please consult your insurance provider for related inquiries.
If this issue has clearly caused you distress, it is still advisable to seek medical attention.
A psychiatrist can provide an evaluation and diagnosis, followed by treatment recommendations.
Generally, if there are no other complicating issues, simple fetishism is typically treated with psychotherapy.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2018/10/18

More Info

Clothing fetishism, also known as garment fetishism, is a type of sexual fetish where individuals derive sexual pleasure from wearing or interacting with clothing, particularly items typically associated with the opposite gender. This phenomenon can often begin in childhood, as you described, and may involve a variety of clothing items, such as lingerie, stockings, or other garments that are culturally associated with femininity.
It's important to understand that having a fetish is not inherently problematic unless it causes distress, interferes with daily functioning, or leads to negative consequences in your life. In your case, it seems that while you experience pleasure from this fetish, you also feel a sense of disgust or shame afterward, which indicates an internal conflict. This is not uncommon among individuals with fetishes, especially when societal norms and personal values clash.

Seeking help for this issue can be beneficial, especially if you wish to understand your feelings better and potentially reduce or eliminate the behavior. A mental health professional, particularly one who specializes in sexual health or fetishism, can provide a non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings and behaviors. Therapy can help you understand the roots of your fetish, address any underlying issues, and develop coping strategies to manage your urges.

Regarding your concerns about stigma and confidentiality, it is crucial to know that mental health professionals are bound by confidentiality laws. This means that anything you discuss in therapy is private and cannot be shared without your consent, except in specific situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others. You do not need to worry about being labeled with a disability or having your personal information exposed. The goal of therapy is to help you, not to stigmatize you.

If you decide to seek help, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in addressing compulsive behaviors and thoughts. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, which could help you manage your fetish in a way that aligns with your values and lifestyle. Additionally, exploring mindfulness techniques may help you become more aware of your urges without acting on them, allowing you to create a healthier relationship with your desires.

In summary, while clothing fetishism is a common phenomenon, it is essential to approach it with understanding and compassion for yourself. Seeking help from a qualified mental health professional can provide you with the tools to manage your feelings and behaviors effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this experience, and there is support available to help you navigate your feelings without stigma.

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