Why therapy is essential for sexual dysfunctions

Sexual well-being is fundamental to psychological health and directly impacts overall happiness. However, issues in this area can significantly diminish quality of life. Even individuals who identify as asexual and do not experience sexual desire can develop forms of distress, such as insecurities or guilt.

Fortunately, therapeutic strategies are available today to help individuals overcome these challenges. This article explores the psychological aspects of sexual dysfunctions and highlights the importance of seeking therapy to address them.

The Importance of Therapy for Sexual Dysfunctions

Sexual dysfunctions are recurrent issues that arise during sexual activity, preventing enjoyment or causing distress and/or pain. These dysfunctions can stem from physical, psychological, or combined causes. It is common for individuals to mistakenly attribute their problem solely to organic factors when the root cause is primarily mental or emotional.

While some sexual dysfunctions affect both sexes, others are specific to men or women due to their physiology. Nevertheless, many share common underlying aspects.

Healthcare professionals typically address sexual dysfunctions through two approaches: medical interventions, which target organic issues, and behavioral and psychological interventions. This discussion focuses on the latter.

Common Sexual Dysfunctions in Therapy

Several sexual dysfunctions are frequently treated in psychological, sexual, and couples therapy settings:

• Erectile Dysfunction
• Anorgasmia
• Vaginismus
• Premature Ejaculation
• Hypoactive Sexual Desire
• Post-Coital Depression

Beyond direct sexual dysfunctions, other psychological issues can indirectly but significantly impact sexuality. Both direct dysfunctions (through sexual therapy) and indirect issues (through individual or couples psychotherapy) can be effectively treated by psychologists trained in these diverse areas.

Affective-Sexual Life Aspects Addressed in Therapy

Problems or unmet needs in sexuality, emotional life, and intimate social interactions can manifest at various levels. These elements can contribute to the onset of sexual dysfunctions through psychological dynamics and internalized, often unconscious, learnings. Fortunately, these can be addressed and overcome through sexual therapy, psychotherapy, and couples therapy.

1. Lack of Information on Sexuality

A crucial aspect, particularly during youth, is the need for comprehensive sexual education. Everyone should have access to accurate, scientifically-backed information about sex, its positive aspects, and its risks, free from prevalent myths and prejudices. This education should reach children, adolescents, and adults with knowledge gaps to reduce unfounded fears and other forms of dysfunctional anxiety that can lead to problems in sexual life.

2. Doubts, Insecurities, and Distress Regarding Sexual Identity

The interplay between an individual’s perception of their sexual life and the development of their self-concept can lead to significant distress. This often stems from historical stigmatization against non-normative ways of experiencing sex. For example, discrimination against non-heterosexual individuals persists to varying degrees, even in societies considered progressive, impacting self-perception and well-being.

3. Inability to Fully Enjoy Sex

This category encompasses the direct symptoms of sexual dysfunctions and psychological disorders that interfere with sexuality. This ranges from experiences linked to pain or lack of enjoyment during the act, such as anorgasmia, vaginismus, or erectile dysfunction, to paraphilias that can place individuals in dangerous or socially isolating situations.

4. Problems in Romantic Relationships

The emotional aspects of romantic relationships are often inseparable from sexual well-being. Consequently, relationship problems frequently manifest in both areas simultaneously. These can include taboo subjects in relational dynamics, misaligned expectations, body insecurities, and fears of vulnerability or imperfection when interacting with a partner.

For those considering therapy to improve their affective-sexual life, whether through sexual therapy, individual psychotherapy, or couples therapy, professional support is available.

Organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) and Mental Health America (MHA) provide resources and guidance for individuals navigating emotional well-being, sexuality, and behavioral health. Additionally, platforms such as BetterHelp and Talkspace offer online therapy with licensed professionals across the U.S., providing accessible and confidential support for those experiencing emotional or psychological challenges during this stage of life.