If you’re currently living with depression, you’re far from alone. It’s estimated that roughly 280 million people worldwide are in the same boat, and it goes without saying that coping isn’t easy. Depression can make a person feel genuinely disconnected from the rest of the world, as well as various parts of themselves.
This includes one’s sexual self, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Whether you’re dealing with a loss of libido due to medications or simply not feeling like yourself mood-wise, there are ways to reconnect with your sexual side and find sexual fulfillment with your partner. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
1. Talk to your doctor about adjusting your meds
Many people make the mistake of thinking that if one medication or dosage causes certain side effects, then that’s the case for all the alternatives, too. That said, they never even get around to speaking to their doctor about their issues and asking if anything can be done.
If your meds make it hard for you to get aroused, reach orgasm, or otherwise enjoy your sex life the way you want to, definitely speak to your doctor. They can work with you to adjust your dosage or find an alternative that handles your depression without killing your sex drive.
2. Or ask about additional meds to counter side effects
Another option to potentially address with your doctor is the possibility of adding a medication to your routine – one that counteracts some of the sexual side effects you’re not so keen on. For example, Viagra can help combat erectile dysfunction. And some meds can help both men and women with libido issues, loss of sensitivity, problems reaching orgasm, and so forth.
Never be afraid or embarrassed to talk to a professional about matters like these. Not only has your doctor absolutely heard it all before, but they’re there to help and want to find you solutions that will help you live your best life.
3. Consider scheduling sex
People with depression aren’t the only folks who sometimes have trouble getting in the mood for sex. Those with busy professional lives, young children, and an entire host of other issues sometimes find themselves in the same boat, so again – you’re in terrific company and have nothing to be ashamed of.
Scheduling sex – just as you would any other important activity – may not sound sexy, but it’s an effective way to push past barriers and eventually get back on track. Not only does scheduling sex give you a chance to get into the right headspace for it in advance, but it allows you to coordinate your efforts with times of day when you feel your best and experience the mildest side effects of any meds you might be taking.
4. Invest more in your foreplay
Preparation really does go a long way when it comes to finding one’s way back to their sexual self, both in and out of the bedroom. That said, foreplay is genuinely the best ways to get the ball rolling in the sex department, even if it takes a little extra time and patience because of a condition like depression.
Take things as slowly and deliberately as you need to. Not only does this give the body time to increase blood flow to the genitals and find its way to proper arousal, but it also helps strengthen the bond between you and your partner. Don’t put too much pressure on yourselves. Just enjoy being close to one another and savor each moment of your experience for what it is.
5. Add toys and lube to your routine
Whether you’re looking for a way to keep the side effects of depression from hurting your sex life or simply want a reliable way to kick things up a notch as needed, the right accessories can really work wonders for your routine. Lube is a perfect place to start, as it can help immensely with issues like vaginal dryness. There are lubes out there designed to aid arousal and bring interesting new sensations to the mix, as well.
And everyone who values their sex life and takes their pleasure seriously should own a sex toy or two. Sex toys can take so much of the guesswork out of getting aroused, feeling stimulated enough, and reaching orgasm – for both partners, not just the one dealing with depression. Plus, they’re fun and bring a lot of possibilities to the table for singles, couples, and everyone in between.
So, while depression will never exactly be easy to deal with, you don’t have to let it keep you from having the type of sex life you truly want. It’s just a matter of finding the right solutions and putting them to work for you.
