Sex addiction will be a major component of a multi-addiction conference planned in Bermuda in November.

American therapist and pioneer in the field of sexual addiction Patrick Carnes will be the keynote speaker.

Dr. Carnes has written several books on the subject and has appeared on numerous TV shows. His 1991 book 'Don't Call it Love' is currently being circulated among the Island's mental health professionals to educate them on the reality of sexual addiction.

Health Minister Patrice Minors said she was delighted to have secured Dr. Carnes as the main speaker.

She said: "We are keen to have access to a renowned counsellor and specialist in this area of sexual addiction although the focus of the conference is multi addiction."

She said the link between sexual addiction and other addictions would be discussed at the conference on November 12-13 which is being run by Court Services.

"It may be the first time it's actually going to be discussed as an item here. We have seen an increase of assaults amongst both young and older people."

She said Court Services had trained people to provide counselling to offenders who have sexual addictions.

"It will be a benefit not just for the court system but for those who have their own personal issues with sexual addiction.

"It's always been a hush-hush, something one can do in the privacy of your own home."

But she said the time had come to break the taboo and discuss the problem openly and to outline the help on offer.

The conference will be open to the public as well as professionals in the caring professions said Mrs. Minors.

"Individuals maybe able to see things they may not have realised existed in their own behaviour over a period of time.

"They might show signs of sexual addiction. That's for them to make a self-assessment.

"They might have a behaviour they feel is acceptable but it could very well be the start of a sexual addiction.

"They will be able to see it and seek out help before their behaviour becomes a problem for someone else.

"The issue has been out there for several years but has never received the dialogue it should have. It's a taboo topic. We see it when it raises its ugly head to the community."

She listed sexual assaults and internet porn addiction as some of the problems caused by Bermuda's sex addicts.