After adrenaline peaks, cortisol is released for several hours.
Cortisol keeps us in a less acute but still stressed state until the threat has passed.
Psychological Erectile Dysfunction Causes
Beyond stress, ED has been linked to other mental health disorders.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
Up to 37% of people with ED have also reported anxiety disorders.
Work and Financial Stress
Work or financial problems also cause significant psychological stress.
Involuntary job loss and financial distress are significant risk factors for ED.
Depression
Depressionoccurs from a chemical imbalance of neurotransmitters, such asserotoninanddopamine, in the brain.
Several studies have reported an association between erectile dysfunction and elevated levels of depressive symptoms.
Men’s depressive symptoms are different.
It may just mean that the two of you gotta find new ways of building connections together.
Consider seeking help from a mental health professional or sex therapist for ways to improve your connection.
This can cause performance anxiety and pressure to perform.
The brain may perceive ED as a failure.
There are strategies you’ve got the option to take advantage of to help improve both.
The findings showed significant improvement in perceived stress and erectile function scores.
A trusted partner is ready to help and support you.
Discussing it may even help the two of you become closer as you face the challenge as a team.
Sensual vs.
Sexual Connection
When it comes to physical intimacy, sexual intercourse is only one part of the experience.
Consider taking part in exercise, movement, and other engaging activities to keep you active.
A healthy heart and blood vessels are directly linked to better erections.
Seeking Treatment
Men are typically taught the importance of self-sufficiency and strength.
This can make seeking help especially difficult.
There are many types of mental health professionals, from marriage and family therapists to sex therapists.
Consider working with a professional, possibly alongside your partner.
A class of medications calledselective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(SSRIs) are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety.
These medications could help treat the anxiety or stress that is causing sexual dysfunction.
Another option would be to focus only on the ED by starting oral medications, such asPDE-5 inhibitors.
Often, dual therapy may be needed to treat both the mental health disorder and erectile dysfunction.
Combination therapy with ED medications, includingPDE-5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil or tadafil, can be beneficial.
Alternative Treatments
You may also consider alternative treatments for ED that can help relieve stress.
With treatment, most people can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling sex life as they age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stress seems to inhibit sexual function.
In studies, ED is connected to participants' self-reports of high levels of both physical and emotional stress.
Sensate focus continues to be one of the best ways to overcome sexual performance anxiety.
Sensate focus is about slowing down the experience of sex and moving very slowly with your partner.
It’s designed to reduce the cycle of performance anxiety.
The most common treatments for stress and sexuality include individual and couples-based cognitive behavioral sex therapy (CBST).
Other treatments that may be helpful include group therapy and mindfulness.
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