I've fallen in a deeper depression than usual and I find myself wanting sex less and less. I'm only 19 and my girlfriend thinks its her but its hard to explain to her how my depression affects me in many aspects of my life. Is this a common symptom of severe depression?
I've been diagnosed with clinical depression and social anxiety.
2007-09-28 05:52:06 · 21 answers · asked by Anonymous in Social Science ➔ Psychology
Thank you for all the helpful answers.
2007-09-28 05:59:04 · update #1
Depression can decrease sexual desire, and so can the medication you take to 'feel better.' PLEASE ask your psychiatrist for a medication that does NOT have a 'sexual depressant' side effect ... it may save your relationship. And show this to your girlfriend ... it's NOT 'her' at all, it's your 'condition.'
2007-09-28 05:57:16 · answer #1 · answered by Kris L 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
How can depression NOT decrease sexual desire?
Depression robs the joy out of everything in life, that is the horror of it. It always sits there in the back of your mind ready to try and ruin you day and spoil any good time that you are having. It can't be escaped and it is relentless.
Also some antidepressants have an adverse side effect of decreasing sexual desire or performance. Personally, after close to 2 decades of dealing with depression I like the medication Wellbutrin which gives me some extra energy and doesn't damage the sex drive.
2007-09-28 05:58:04 · answer #2 · answered by Dan S 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If your taking any medication for the depression then yes you can loose your desire for sex. Not only that as I myself have bipolar depression I know that when I am at my lowest point in the depression phase that I dont want much of any contact from anyone and that does include sexual.
you might want to call the mental health department about it if its really affecting your life. they may be able to either change your medication or to put you on something that will help.
2007-09-28 05:57:01 · answer #3 · answered by angel_fenix1 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, a change (increase or decrease) in libido is a documented side effect of many kinds of depression. It can also be a side effect of medication taken to combat depression. Don't stop meds if this is the case, as the urge can come back once the drug is settled in your system. If it continues, it's worth mentioning to your doctor...and don't worry about asking...they will have heard every kind of question you can think of.
2007-09-28 05:57:20 · answer #4 · answered by Indeedy 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
yes, less desire is a side effect of depression!
some info about depression here:
http://www.depression.com/types_of_depression.html
one of the points stated is: decreased interest or pleasure in usual activities or hobbies
Show the site to her so she'll understand your condition more. Good luck!
2007-09-28 05:57:24 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, it affects every aspect of your life. Depression has a snowball affect. I have been thru a few hard spots and it's hard to maintain a level of normalcy. Good luck with your treatment and relationship.
2007-09-28 05:59:14 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
yep - talk to your doctor TODAY!
Be aware that the side effect of most anti-depressant drugs is a decreased sex drive. In that case it's caused by the medication, not the illness.
2007-09-28 05:56:21 · answer #7 · answered by Fester Frump 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Gf needs to learn about your disorder to have a better understanding of the symptoms and what to learn to live with. I suggest you take her with you to consult your doctor. I also suggest you get involved with a group that will help lessen the burden of stress since you have questions about this disorder. There is lots to learn and you need to get involved. Otherwise, you'll never know how to control it and live the typical way of life.
2007-09-28 06:47:25 · answer #8 · answered by anaise 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've been treated for depression for years and I feel there is DEFINITELY a decrease in sexual desire.
2007-09-28 06:03:03 · answer #9 · answered by TN 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, and so do many medications to treat the condition. Ask your psychiatrist about medication that may affect your sexual drive and performance.
2007-09-28 05:55:39 · answer #10 · answered by jct101 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋