Depression and your sex life

I am among the many Americans who suffer from depression and anxiety. Statistics show that 14.8 million Americans over the age of 18 suffer from these conditions each year. Though depression does affect both males and females, it is more common in females. It is also among the highest disabilities in our country.

So why am I sharing this with you? It is important that if you have depression or anxiety, that you know that you are not alone! Likewise, if your partner suffers from these conditions, you get a better understanding of their condition.

One of the major problems with a couple where one (or both) are suffering from depression is the sexual relationship. The brain is a sensitive sexual organ that sends pleasure to your sensual areas. When you suffer from depression there is a chemical imbalance that does not always allow the signal from your brain to reach those parts. Besides the depressions affects, the medications used to treat your depression is very much a sex drive killer. Antidepressants help boost mood in people with depression by altering the balance of brain chemicals. But the same chemicals are involved in the sexual response. Antidepressants change that balance too, often causing sexual dysfunction. The sexual side effects of antidepressants appear to increase as the dose of medication increases.

There are many newer forms of antidepressants that may not affect your sex drive quite as much so it is imperative that you discuss your issues with both your partner and your doctor. Your doctors cannot assist you with your problem if they are unaware that it exists.

It is important for you to find the happy in life so try to get out for a walk daily and find things to appreciate such as the flowers in the fields. Medication can also alter your relationship with food so try and eat five fruits and vegetables a day to maintain health. Don't completely disconnect from your partner but do inform them of your mood/desires or lack of. Also beware of your alcohol intake as it closely affects your depression.

Partners, try to intimate in other ways, such as hold hands and cuddle. Know that even though there are days that you will feel that your partner is not interested in you, it is the illness that is causing this affect. Go for walks with your partner. Promoting healthy outlets will help lift their spirits as well as allow you to reconnect along the way.

Though depression and illnesses causing depression will be a lifelong battle, there are ways to feel well and healthy again. Many people have these problems and live a productive life. Stay strong and know you are loved!