How to increase libido in depression? In recent years, depression has become an increasing social problem, and its treatment is one of the greatest challenges in medicine. Seemingly, its symptoms only affect the patient's psyche. People suffering from depression usually withdraw from interacting with the world and others. They close themselves off and distance themselves from what was once valuable to them. They lack motivation, self-confidence, and the strength and desire to face daily life. This article describes the most common sexual disorders encountered in patients with depression, such as sexual desire disorders, orgasm disorders, decreased sex drive, reduced interest in sex, decreased libido, and other difficulties they notice in the sexual realm.
In reality, depression affects the entire body of the person who is ill. It can be accompanied by sleep disturbances, decreased appetite, headaches, stomachaches, neck pain, or menstrual cycle disorders in women. As I mentioned above, one of the symptoms that patients often do not associate directly with depression is sexual dysfunction. Among these, decreased libido can be distinguished.
Lack of sexual desire or orgasm - The medical aspect
The primary center in the human body responsible for responding to sexual stimuli is the brain. Its job is to process thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Additionally, it regulates genital responses. This is managed through centers responsible for mood regulation, including the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hypothalamus.
Furthermore, the transmission of information related to sexual response is carried out by monoamines. These include serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Their dysregulation is a common factor in both sexual dysfunctions and mood disorders. Therefore, medications that affect monoamine levels not only regulate mood but also influence sexual response.
Libido and antidepressants - How to increase libido in depression
It sometimes happens that a decrease in libido is a side effect of using antidepressants, which act agonistically on serotonergic receptors. Reduced libido and difficulties in achieving orgasm often persist even after discontinuing the medications.
Psychotherapy for sexual desire disorders - Lack of libido
One of the main methods for treating depression is psychotherapy. Typically, its effectiveness requires time. It is also sometimes necessary to incorporate pharmacotherapy.
However, it is crucial to recognize that reduced libido plays a significant role in the treatment process of depression. This disorder can be an early symptom of the illness and prompt the patient to visit a psychotherapist. A sudden lack of desire for sexual activity is one of the symptoms of a depressive episode.
On the other hand, a decrease in sexual drive or the emergence of erectile dysfunction in men can further contribute to a drop in mood. Many studies confirm that a satisfying sexual life positively impacts mood and overall well-being.
The absence of sexual activity can cause a decline in self-esteem, self-confidence, and feelings of guilt in the affected individual. This can deepen depression, which in turn can further negatively affect libido levels.
Therefore, a specialist's interview is extremely important. Although the sexual sphere is often a sensitive topic, it holds significant importance in the treatment process. A satisfying sexual life can positively influence self-perception. For those taking medications, it can be an indication of the absence of adverse effects and thus evidence of well-chosen pharmacotherapy.
Massages for depression, low libido, and regulation of sexual activity
There are many methods to support psychotherapy in treating depression. One crucial factor is lifestyle change. Emphasis is placed on getting adequate sleep and reducing stress and tension. Massage therapy can also be helpful.
There are many types of massage. One of the basic types is classic massage, which aims to relieve tension and promote relaxation. However, for treating depression and sexual dysfunctions, an energizing massage might be the best choice. Its effect includes harmonizing the body and emotions. The goal is to address psychological issues that are linked to somatic symptoms.
Tantric Massage: Its impact on libido, sexual function, and supporting depression treatment
An example of an energizing massage is tantric massage. It is often misunderstood as erotic massage. Most massages labeled as "tantric massage" found on the internet are actually erotic massages with a beautiful spiritual name. True tantric massage has nothing to do with erotic massage and is not aimed at physical pleasure. However, when correctly performed, true tantric massage can have a significant positive impact on low libido and other sexual dysfunctions.
It includes a conversation with the masseur to understand the individual's needs. The massage itself uses plant oils and incorporates hands, feathers, stones, and wraps.
A characteristic feature is conscious breathing work and not skipping any part of the body unless the recipient has set boundaries before the massage, which can be further narrowed during the session.
Therefore, one of the stages may, but does not have to, include Yoni massage (in the area of the female genitalia) or Lingam massage (in the area of the male genitalia). Everything is done with respect for the patient's boundaries.
Tantric massage can be an ideal support during depression treatment, even if the individual is taking antidepressants. From experience, I can say that if the person's depression is not deep and is being treated without antidepressants—such as only through psychotherapy—a true tantric massage often provides rapid support (often visible effects after the first session) in returning to well-being and helps shorten psychotherapy.
On the other hand, if the person is undergoing treatment for deeper depression requiring antidepressants, although tantric massage is still very helpful, its effects are slower. Typically, more sessions are needed to feel the effects on daily mood, low libido, sexual interactions, social relationships, etc.
Read more about true tantric massage on the website: https://www.anahatatantra.com/tantric-massage-description-what-is-how-done/
Havening Technique®
One alternative treatment method is Havening. This method uses touch on the hands, arms, and face to generate delta waves in the brain, which positively affect the amygdala, the area of the brain responsible for good mood.
The therapy can be conducted with the support of a specialist or independently by the patient. A notable advantage of this method is the lack of necessary accessories, as it relies on touch and the patient's imagination.
Havening Therapy consists of several stages. It begins with assessing the intensity of a negative memory recalled by the patient, which is then replaced with a positive visualization, such as a memory of walking on the beach or resting in a meadow. This is followed by the characteristic touch, involving rubbing the patient's arms in a crossed position. After the session, the patient recalls the negative memory again to reassess and determine if its impact on their psyche has diminished.
Trauma as a cause of sexual disorders
Many individuals, despite the lack of unequivocal studies, confirm the effectiveness of this method, even after the first session. Havening Technique® has particular success in sexual function and activity when symptoms of decreased libido and sexual needs, as well as depression, are caused by a major or minor trauma.
Examples of trauma include a highly contentious breakup, sudden separation, difficult divorce proceedings, intense arguments, experiences of humiliation, witnessing or experiencing infidelity, etc.
Summary - Sexual dysfunction and reduced libido in women and men
Depression affects many individuals, and its course can vary depending on the patient. Often, it coexists with sexual dysfunctions, including reduced libido. This can be caused by the illness itself or by taking antidepressant medications. This is because the same brain areas are responsible for both mood reduction and sexual drive. Additionally, in both genders, the quality of sexual life influences the patient's mood.
In summary, the connection between depression and reduced libido is clear, and thus the treatment methods can be similar. Appropriate psychotherapy, when necessary combined with pharmacotherapy, tantric massages, and alternative therapies are actions that positively impact the patient's health and well-being.
Note: If you are taking antidepressants or are under psychiatric care, do not stop treatment without your doctor's consent! Massages and other therapies are supplementary. Abruptly discontinuing antidepressants in most cases can lead to very negative consequences.
Bibliography:
Wróbel M., Mosiołek A.: Dysfunkcje seksualne w przebiegu zaburzeń depresyjnych, Psychiatry 2018, 15,1:39-44
Lew-Starowicz M.: Problemy seksualne pacjentów leczonych z powodu depresji, Przegląd Seksuologiczny 2015, 3(43):3-11
www.havening.org
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