Depression can affect your sexual health

May 31, 2019

Yes, you read it right! Depression affects sexual health. In fact, it is one of the most common illnesses affecting a large number of people over the course of time. While women are more prone to develop the disease, it can be seen in anyone regardless of age or gender. It is mandatory to note that sadness is different from depression. Grief is something everyone experiences and is a normal reaction to the difficult times in life. Depression, on the other hand, interferes with the normal functioning of an individual. It can be emotionally draining for both the sufferer and the people around him.

Symptoms of Depression

As explained, sadness is nothing but a part of depression. In fact, some people suffering from depression may not feel sadness at all. Depression has a number of physical as well as emotional symptoms. If one is experiencing the following symptoms for extended periods, it is advisable to visit the doctor as these are clear signs of depression.

Persistently anxious and sad mood
Pessimist attitude
A feeling of hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness
Losing interest in hobbies and activities
Fatigue, decrease in energy, slowing down
Difficulty in concentration and decision making
Difficulty in sleeping or excessive sleeping
Weight changes
Suicidal thoughts
Irritability, restlessness
Other physical symptoms

Any of these symptoms must not be taken lightly. Moreover, if there for extended periods of time, it is best to visit the doctor for medications and treatment.

Depression affects the libido

Often people who suffer from depression lose interest in sex and sexual activities. In fact, depression has an adverse effect on every aspect of our lives, including relationships. In some cases, the relationship may suffer to such a great extent that it doesn’t even survive. The brain undergoes a number of chemical changes during the depression, and so does the entire body. As a result, this effect is majorly seen in sleep (as it is disrupted) and any activity that requires spontaneity and good coordination. This is why most people who are under depression lose interest in sex. In men, the brain activity is considerably affected, causing a feeling of hopelessness and tiredness which one may associate with loss of libido and erection problems. In women, this effect on the brain activity is the primary cause behind the lack of desire for sex and difficulty in reaching orgasm. However, as the illness gets better, there is a new interest in sex, which is the first sign of recovery.

Sex and antidepressants

If depression does not impact the sex life, the medications prescribed may do the same. Most antidepressant medicines like Prozac interfere with sexual function. In fact, these medicines interfere with the process of orgasm, either delaying it or not occurring at all. Another popular treatment for depression is serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) because it influences the sex lives.

Treatment

Treating depression is one of the ways to overcome any sexual dysfunction. Feeling good again may help a person get back to normal sex life. The doctor may decide your course of treatment depending on the effects of the treatment. They may decide from plenty of options like changing the medication. Certain medications like bupropion, mirtazapine and nefazodone do not cause any sexual side effects.

Besides the general adjustments, some other steps one may take include-

Consume the antidepressant after engaging in sex
Exercise regularly to improve physical well-being
Talk to your partner about the effects of depression on sexual health.
Consult the doctor to add medication for sexual dysfunction. (Eg: Viagra for improving sex drive)