Depression is often a major cause of sexual dysfunction and impotence. Depression and erectile dysfunction affect men’s ability to achieve erections. Thus, depression can often lead to poor sex drive.
Exploring Serious Effects of Depression
According to a study by the University of Missouri‘s Columbia School of Medicine, 70% of people who suffer from depression report a significant loss of sexual desire. Therefore, impotence is one of the manifold effects of depression in men.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve and maintain an erect penis sufficient for sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction can affect as many as 1 in 3 men worldwide.
Between ED and depression, sexual dysfunction is often associated with older men. However, depression can potentially affect men of all ages.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression affects almost 7% of all Americans over the age of 18. Thus, depression occurs as early as adolescent stage.
Possible Causes of Depression
Trauma and stress are one of the few causes of depression. Depression can lead to feelings of fatigue, worthlessness, suicide and significant weight loss or weight gain. Other causes of depression include social isolation, abusive behaviors, familial history and chemical imbalance.
Erectile dysfunction and depression are intertwined. The psychological and physiological symptoms of depression often lead to ED. Erectile dysfunction and impotence can result to poor self- esteem and broken relationships.
Some medications for treating depression can have sexual side effects. This can result to difficulty in men to achieve an erection.
The inability to maintain sexual performance often causes serious problems. Many times, men associate their ability to perform sexually with their personal vitality and self-esteem. Sexual dysfunction can lead to feelings of failure and denial.
If left untreated, depression and impotence may harmfully affect relationships. Therefore, it’s best to consult an expert regarding the treatments available for ED and depression.
