Mental health and sexuality are two essential aspects of well-being, often interconnected without us always being aware of it. How we feel mentally can influence our sex lives, and vice versa. For example, did you know that a fulfilling sex life can improve mood and strengthen overall well-being?
How Mental Health Influences Sexuality
Stress, anxiety, or depression can impact our sexual desire. When we feel exhausted or overwhelmed by everyday concerns,[1], it becomes difficult to make oneself mentally and physically available for intimate moments. These disorders can affect self-image, body confidence, and even the ability to experience pleasure.[2].
Additionally, some drug treatments for depression or anxiety can cause side effects that affect libido and sexual response.[3]. It should be noted that several classes of antidepressants can affect sexual function.[4]. It is therefore essential to discuss it with a healthcare professional if it affects you.
Conversely, a satisfying sex life can have positive effects on mental health. During sex, hormones such as endorphins and oxytocin are released, promoting relaxation, happiness, and stress reduction.[5]A fulfilling sexuality can also strengthen self-esteem and the feeling of being desired and appreciated.
However, it is essential that sexual relationships are based on respect and consent. A negative experience or sexual trauma can profoundly impact mental and emotional health. In these cases, it is essential to seek professional support.
Mental Health, Sexuality and Gender Identity
Experiences with mental health and sexuality vary by gender and sociocultural pressures. Studies show that sexual minorities report significantly lower life satisfaction than heterosexual adults.[6].
In Men
Men often experience social pressure related to sexual performance and emotional expression. This pressure to be virile can lead to performance anxiety or erectile dysfunction. Furthermore, difficulty expressing emotions or asking for help can negatively impact their mental and sexual well-being.[7]
In Women
Women can be influenced by social norms and expectations about their bodies and their role in relationships. They are more likely to suffer from disorders such as anxiety and depression, which can impair their sexual desire. A negative body image can also make sexuality less fulfilling. [8]
Among LGBTQ2 peopleS+
LGBTQ2 peopleS+ may face additional challenges related to stigma and discrimination. Exclusion from heterocentric norms, rejection, social pressure[9], depression, anxiety, suicidality and substance abuse can affect their mental and sexual well-being[10]. In addition, they are exposed to a risk twice as high for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).[11]It is therefore crucial to offer them a caring and inclusive space to speak freely about these issues.
Some Tips for Better Living with Your Sexuality and Mental Health
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Listen to yourself : Respect your desires, your needs, and your limits. Never force yourself to have sex if you don't feel like it. Take the time to ask yourself what makes you feel good.
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Take care of your mind : Try to disconnect from social media which can increase stress and fatigue levels[12]Stress can be a barrier to sexual fulfillment. Engage in relaxing activities like meditation, reading, music, playing a sport, or taking walks in nature.
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Dare to talk about it Whether with a partner, a healthcare professional, or a trusted person, expressing your concerns can ease the burden of doubt and provide support. You are not alone.
By better understanding the links between mental health and sexuality, we can foster a more peaceful and compassionate approach to ourselves and our relationships. Here are some suggestions for you, starting with small, simple steps.
The SEXplique team
[1] McQuad, P. (animator). (2024, February 15). The effects of stress and anxiety on sexuality [Émission de radio]. Ohdio, Radio-Canada.
[2] Idib.
[3] Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights. (2018). Between Body and Mind: How to Create Connections Between Mental Health and Sexual Health.
[4] Dufour, M.-C., Caouette, M., & Charbonneau, J. (nd). Sexuality and schizophrenia, a taboo? Quebec Society of Schizophrenia and Related Psychoses.
[5] Austin, D. (2023, August 16). How to live happily thanks to our hormones? National Geographic.
[6] Hajo, S., Capaldi, CA, & Liu, L. (2024). Disparities in the positive mental health of sexual and gender minority adults in Canada. Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada, 44(5), 219–231.
[7] Ibid.
[8] Ibid.
[9] Ibid.
[10] Massie, M. (2020). A facilitator's guide: Intersectional approaches to mental health education. UBC Workplace Health Services and Health, Wellbeing and Benefits.
[11] Idib.
[12] University of Quebec in Outaouais. (2023). Lifeline June 2023: The Intersection Between Identity (Issue 6). Homewood Health.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights. (2018). Between Body and Mind: How to Create Connections Between Mental Health and Sexual Health. https://www.actioncanadashr.org/sites/default/files/2022-03/SRH2018%20Handbook%20-%20FR%20-%20Action%20Canada%20pour%20la%20sante%20et%20les%20droits%20sexuels.pdf
Austin, D. (2023, August 16). How to live happily thanks to our hormones? National Geographic. https://www.nationalgeographic.fr/sciences/2023/08/comment-vivre-heureux-grace-a-nos-hormones
Dufour, M.-C., Caouette, M., & Charbonneau, J. (nd). Sexuality and schizophrenia, a taboo? Quebec Society of Schizophrenia and Related Psychoses. https://www.schizophrenie.qc.ca/fr/sexualite-et-schizophrenie
Massie, M. (2020). A facilitator's guide: Intersectional approaches to mental health education. UBC Workplace Health Services and Health, Wellbeing and Benefits. https://wellbeing.ubc.ca/sites/wellbeing.ubc.ca/files/u9/Facilitator%20Guide%20-%20Intersectionality%20and%20Mental%20Health.pdf
McQuad, P. (animator). (2024, February 15). The effects of stress and anxiety on sexuality [Émission de radio]. Ohdio, Radio-Canada. https://www.radio-canada.ca/ohdio
Hajo, S., Capaldi, CA, & Liu, L. (2024). Disparities in the positive mental health of sexual and gender minority adults in Canada. Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada, 44(5), 219–231.
University of Quebec in Outaouais. (2023). Lifeline June 2023: The Intersection of Identity (Issue 6). Homewood Health. https://uqo.ca/sites/default/files/df1ce2dd6c2507364374c76c0a3737dd505802cbligne-de-vie-juin-2023-lintersection-entre-lidentite.pdf