How Mental Health Impacts Intimate Health and Sexual Wellbeing

Sexual health and mental health are interlinked.

Key highlights or summary

  • Mental health issues like stress and depression can negatively affect sexual health, reducing libido and arousal.
  • Stress affects the body by increasing cortisol levels, which can decrease sexual desire.
  • Depression reduces serotonin and dopamine, leading to a lack of interest in intimacy.
  • Open communication, therapy, exercise, and stress management are key to improving both mental and sexual health.
  • Patience and self-care are essential for healing and maintaining a healthy relationship.

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  1. Montejo A. L. (2019). Sexuality and Mental Health: The Need for Mutual Development and Research. Journal of clinical medicine, 8(11), 1794. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm8111794
  2. Montejo A.L., Montejo L., Baldwin D.S. The impact of severe mental disorders andpsychotropic medications on sexual health and its implications for clinical management. World Psychiatry. 2018;17:3–11.  
  3. Arcos-Romero, A. I., & Calvillo, C. (2023). Sexual Health and Psychological Well-Being of Women: A Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 11(23), 3025.
  4. Devkota L., Pant S.B., Ojha S.P., Chapagai M. Prevalence of sexual dysfunction in women with depressive disorder at a tertiary hospital. J. Psychosexual Health. 2022;4:123–128.  

Frequently asked questions

Get the information you need.

Yes, mental health issues like stress and depression can lead to a reduced desire for intimacy.

Stress increases cortisol levels, which can reduce arousal and sexual desire.

Open communication, exploring non-sexual intimacy, and seeking professional help can help restore connection.

Yes, therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, can help address the root causes of sexual health issues linked to mental health.

Yes, exercise boosts mood, reduces stress, and increases blood flow, all of which contribute to better mental and sexual health.

Be honest and gentle, explaining how you are feeling and the support you may need.

Yes, depression can reduce interest in sex due to changes in brain chemistry and overall mood.

Yes, couples therapy can help improve communication and strengthen emotional bonds, aiding in intimacy challenges.