And low libido can exacerbate stress by causing relationship issues or lowered self-confidence.
This is known as thefight or flight response.
Psychological Effects
In addition to the physiological effects of stress, there is also a psychological aspect.
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Stress can create a busy, frazzled mind, and distract you from wanting or being present during sex.
It can also impact your mood, leading to anxiety and depression, both of which can diminish libido.
Lifestyle Choices
Uncontrolled stress can lead to unhealthy habits such as smoking, drinking, and overeating.
It can also lead people to forgo self-care and exercise.
These shifts can influence how you feel about yourself and interfere with a healthy sex life.
This can impact your physical health in many ways, including causing low libido.
Here are a few strategies to consider.
Working through relationship difficulties is important for many reasons, and your sex drive is a big one.
Look for strategies that support the needs of both partners.
A quick jog or evening walk together may help you feel more connected while you get those endorphins going.
If your partner is willing to try yoga, practicing together may help bring new energy to the bedroom.
Adding a little music or aromatherapy can also help set the tone for relaxation and romance.
Simply hugging someone releases the stress-busting hormone oxytocin.
Focusing on touch, rather than sex, can help you relax and find pleasure and intimacy.
Hopefully, this will also increase your desire for closeness and, ultimately, sex.
The best approach is one that sees low libido as a problem you will overcome together.
Sex Therapy
Sex therapyis a specialized punch in of talk therapy focusing on sexual issues.
A sex therapist may give you homework to do as a couple, such as role-playing or communication exercises.
Together, you might test strategies to lower your stress levels and boost your sex drive.
By doing so, you may even end up strengthening your relationship and improving your health overall.
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