How Mental Illness Can Affect Your Sexual Life

Almost half of adults have experienced a mental illness at least once in their lives. Research and practical experience tell us that mental illness can cause a person’s quality of life to decline, productivity and employment decline, and even deterioration of physical health. Although the scope and impact of mental illness is much greater than we thought.

One of the biggest challenges people face is that their condition affects their sex life. A relatively common example is depression, which can cause patients to lack interest or energy in sex. When they seek treatment, they may find that they are prescribed a drug that further reduces intimacy.

Any mental disorder, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, etc. can be treated. You just need to find the right treatment.

The online counselling is of great help for people suffering from a mental illness. Because some people don’t want to share their identity, but want to talk about losing intimacy in their relationship.

What Is The Connection Between Sexual Problems And Mental Illness?

Mental illness affects sex because of biology. It starts with chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters communicate between your brain, where sexual desire starts, and your sex organs. When your brain thinks desire, your body responds by increasing blood flow to the sex organs. Increased blood flow triggers arousal through an erection or vaginal lubrication.

In a person with mental illness, the sex-related chemicals are out of balance. As a result, sexual desire is low or missing. Low levels of some of these chemicals can also dull pleasurable feelings.

What Are The Symptoms That Tell You About Your Losing Interest In Intimacy?  

Various symptoms have been discovered in partners, clearly demonstrating how one partner’s mental illness has affected the sex life. When these signs are ignored in a relationship, it can easily lead to an unhealthy and depressed relationship.

• Reduced self-esteem.
• Inability to enjoy pleasure.
• Disinterest in activities.
• Energy levels are low.
• Moods fluctuate.

How To Deal With The Impact Of Mental Illness On Your Sex Life

Get To The Bottom Of Your Issue

Despite some medications’ sexual side effects, getting treatment is your best option for overcoming depression and its negative effects on sex. You may want to try non-pharmaceutical methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, in addition to medication (a treatment method that addresses negative thoughts while supporting positive behaviors). It may not be a quick fix, but it is a worthwhile approach to dealing with both depression and sex issues.

Increase Physical Contact.

Physical touch is one of the most important aspects of intimacy. As you try to combat depression’s negative effect on sex, cuddling, hugging, and massage of all kinds should be explored. Sometimes it’s just nice to have a back rub and go to sleep. Of course, touching can boost your sexual desire and turn on your urge.

Communicate With Your Partner In An Open And Honest Manner.

Any concerns you have may turn out to be unfounded. If they are discovered to be shared, consider inviting your partner to one of your counselling sessions or starting relationship counselling. This can aid in keeping the conversation safe and productive. It is possible that some of your concerns can be addressed while others remain unaffected. Working toward a common understanding can help to strengthen a relationship.

Redefine Intimacy. 

To reap the benefits of a close physical relationship, you don’t need a hot and steamy tangle in the sheets. If you don’t feel like going all the way — or even just a portion of the way — simply holding hands, snuggling, or laughing together can help.

How Can A Counsellor Help You In Bringing Back The Intimacy In Your Relationship 

Sex Counselling: Sex therapists can help people who are having sexual problems that their primary clinician is unable to address. Therapists are frequently effective marital counsellors. Working with a trained professional is well worth the time and effort for a couple who wants to start enjoying their sexual relationship.

Behavioral Treatments: These include a variety of techniques such as insights into harmful behaviors in the relationship or techniques such as self-stimulation for the treatment of arousal and/or orgasm problems.

Psychotherapy: Working with a trained counsellor can help you deal with past sexual trauma, feelings of anxiety, fear, guilt, and poor body image. All of these factors may affect sexual function.

Education And Communication: Learning about sex and sexual behaviors and responses can help you overcome sexual function anxieties. An open dialogue with your partner about your needs and concerns also aids in the removal of many obstacles to a healthy sex life.

To summarize, your body and brain crave various forms of closeness in order to maintain your overall well-being. Although some mental health issues can make it difficult to feel close to others or engage in intimacy, it is critical to consult with experts and work with your body to stay healthy, happy, and close to your loved ones.

Find The Magic Back In Your Sexual Life With Experts Help 

We offer the best online couples counselling services by trained and experienced counsellors on the OnlineCounselling4U platform. Speaking with an Online Counselor will assist you in determining the best course of action for your relationship issues. Contact our trained motivational therapists via phone, chat, or email 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year from the comfort of your own home. There is no judgement, and you can speak completely anonymously to any of our counsellors in any language you prefer, both in India and abroad. Feel free to contact any of the online counselling therapists.

Call us to book a session today.

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FAQs

How Does Mental Health Affect Sexual Health?

Mental health affects your sexual health in many ways that you also might not be aware of. Getting the right treatment at the right time is most important to have a long lasting relationship. 

Does Relationship Therapy Help With Intimacy?

An experienced and trained professional can help couples with intimacy issues. A therapist uses various therapies so that partners start reconnecting with each other.

Can Depression Affect You Sexually?

Yes, during depression, both men and women experience sexual problems. People suffering from chronic depression may lose desire, take longer to orgasm, and simply find sex less enjoyable.