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How Depression Can Impact Libido
Depression can impact every aspect of an individual’s life, including their sex life. Low self-esteem, lack of confidence, feelings of hopelessness, feelings of fatigue, and poor mental health can all lower libido which can lead to other sexual health issues such as anorgasmia (trouble reaching orgasm).
Libido is influenced by depression through biological factors. Neurotransmitters, chemicals in the brain, play a crucial role in communication between the brain, the origin of sexual desire, and the sex organs. When the brain senses sexual desire, it causes the body to respond by increasing blood flow to the sex organs, which triggers arousal. In an individual with depression, these sex-related chemicals are out of balance and can result in low or non-existent sexual desire and sexual satisfaction. This can be the case whether you have a major depressive disorder or moderate depression.
WHAT IS HORMONAL THERAPY?
Dr. Powers explains hormonal therapy and the reasons to seek out a physician. If the conditions listed above are bothering you in your everyday life, watch this video to get more information on how hormonal therapy may benefit you!
Symptoms of Depression
- Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Outbursts, irritability, and frustration
- Loss of interest in normal activities
- Sleep disturbances
- Tiredness and lack of energy
- Loss of appetite
- Anxiety
- Trouble thinking and concentrating
- Body aches and pains
Tips For Treating Depression and Sexual Function
Lifestyle Changes
Sometimes lifestyle changes alone can help to diminish sexual dysfunction due to depression and depression symptoms. These include:
- Avoiding drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, which can impact sexual function.
- Engaging in physical fitness and eating a healthy diet to maintain a healthy body weight.
- Speaking honestly and openly with partners regarding mental and physical health
- Working with a healthcare professional to choose medications with few side effects.
Antidepressant Medications
Depression is often treated with antidepressant medication, but certain antidepressants may actually make sexual dysfunction worse. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in particular are known to cause decreased sex drive, desire, arousal, and orgasm. Before beginning an antidepressant to treat depression, patients should speak with their healthcare provider to discuss possible sexual side effects.
Addressing Menopause
Because depression is a common symptom of menopause, it is important that patients discuss menopausal symptoms when seeking treatment for depression. Often hormone replacement therapy can obviate the need for antidepressant medications. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, offered in pellet form, can help to address depression symptoms associated with menopause, restoring your healthy sex life.
Communicate with Your Partner
When you are depressed, it can be hard to talk about the way you are feeling, especially when your depression is affecting such an intimate part of your life. Intimacy involves two individuals, and engaging in open discussions with your partner helps in recognizing and understanding both your sexual needs and desires. Seeing a sex therapist with your partner can also shed light on ways to improve your communication and sexual functioning.
CONTACT US TODAY
When depression is associated with other menopausal symptoms, many women will find that restoring deficient hormones leads to improved mood and restoration of a healthy libido. At Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics, our team will create a personalized treatment plan for an improved quality of life. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does depression cause loss of libido?
If I am depressed, will my libido decrease?
Why is my libido so low?
Will I ever get my libido back?
What does low libido feel like?
Is low libido mental or physical?
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