The phenomenon of chronic sexual dissatisfaction is increasingly common nowadays due to various reasons such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, lack of communication and understanding between partners, among others. It can be defined as an ongoing sense of frustration, disappointment or dissatisfaction with one's current level of sexual activity, desire, or performance. It can also result from physical conditions like low libido, medical conditions, hormonal changes, and side effects of medications. While it affects both men and women, it has been shown that women are more likely than men to experience this problem.
One way that chronic sexual dissatisfaction manifests is through psychological distress. This can take several forms, including but not limited to feelings of guilt, shame, embarrassment, self-blame, anger, sadness, isolation, and even hopelessness. When a person experiences chronic sexual dissatisfaction, they may feel as if something is wrong with them, which can lead to negative self-talk and harmful thoughts about their worthiness and desirability. In addition, it can cause low mood, irritability, insomnia, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, among other symptoms. These feelings can then spill over into other areas of life, leading to problems at work, school, or in personal relationships.
Relational difficulties are another consequence of chronic sexual dissatisfaction. When people struggle with their sex lives, they may avoid intimacy altogether, withdraw emotionally, become distant, act out in destructive ways, or engage in extramarital affairs. They may have trouble communicating openly with their partner about their needs and preferences, creating tension and misunderstanding. Their relationship may suffer due to a lack of trust, respect, or mutual understanding. In some cases, the couple may split up altogether, leading to further emotional turmoil and loss.
Chronic sexual dissatisfaction can also impact a person's emotional balance. It can cause a sense of imbalance and instability in one's emotions, leaving them feeling disconnected from themselves and others. People who experience this problem may find that they cannot relax, enjoy activities outside of the bedroom, or form meaningful connections with others. They may also experience physical symptoms like headaches, digestive issues, muscle tension, and general aches and pains, which only add to their stress levels. All these factors combined can create a vicious cycle that is difficult to break free from without professional help.
How does chronic sexual dissatisfaction manifest in psychological distress, relational difficulties, and emotional imbalance?
Chronic sexual dissatisfaction is linked with increased risk of depression, anxiety, and relationship stress (Davison et al. , 2017). The lack of mutual satisfaction can lead to decreased intimacy, negative feelings about one's body image and self-esteem, as well as strained communication between partners (Goldstein & Herman, 2020; Kerner, 2019).