Whether you’re in a relationship or not, if you struggle with depression, it can take a toll on your sex life. Not only are you less likely to desire intimacy when depressed, but there may be a whole other host of factors playing in to why you don’t feel that in tune with your sexuality. People who are depressed may not eat as healthy of a diet or isolate themselves from peers or activities. This may impact their ability to feel the desire to exercise or pursue physical activity.
Whether you have been diagnosed with some type of depressive disorder or you just feel that your blues are impacting your life and getting in the way of a healthy sex life, you’re not alone. Read on to find out more about how you can work to not feel so depressed and have a more fulfilling sex life than perhaps you thought possible.
Tips for Lifting Your Depression and Having a Healthy Sex Life
1. See a therapist to focus on yourself
The most important thing to do is to address what is affecting your love life so drastically. The situation may vary as well; some people are involved in a long term committed relationship and others are single or just dating. Still, others hang back from getting to know anyone or becoming intimate because they are aware that they are not in a very good place right now. Seeing a counselor or a therapist could really help you start tuning in to what would be good for your life and what would be a step back.
2. See a sex therapist
If you already see a therapist or feel that your problems are more related to your past than to any sort of depressive feelings, you might benefit from seeing a sex therapist sex therapist. These types of therapists specialize in the area and so you would be seeing someone that has the tools to help you improve your sex life.
3. Increase your exercise
If you lead a very sedentary lifestyle, it could be taking a toll on your energy levels. Studies have shown that a moderate amount of exercise a couple of times a week can actually boost libido, energy, and feelings of well-being. If you’re getting very low amounts of physical activity, try making an effort to work out five times a week and see if it helps not only your depression but any feelings of anxiety or low libido.
4. Find what you like about sex and focus on it
Do you like cuddling with someone? Do you find that kissing them or having something special like a massage that is intimate lays groundwork for you to desire intimacy? Finding what turns you on or what you enjoy when it comes to sex can be an entryway for you to enjoy it more than you have in the past. Especially for couples, this can be a good way to slowly ignite that spark again after potential months of going without physical intimacy.
Figure out if it’s your medication.
Often certain types of medicine can have side effects on mood and energy levels, pesisir and yes, even libido and desire. You may want to consider switching a prescription if you are taking a certain brand of pill that is known to have this effect on people.