Trauma and Illness Affect Sexual Engagement
Trauma refers to any experience that causes significant psychological distress or suffering. It can occur due to physical or emotional abuse, neglect, natural disasters, accidents, war, violence, or death. When people experience trauma, they may feel frightened, helpless, powerless, depressed, anxious, angry, confused, or ashamed. These feelings can impact their ability to trust others, communicate effectively, regulate emotions, establish healthy boundaries, and maintain relationships.
Illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, HIV/AIDS, Parkinson's disease, MS, and epilepsy can also affect sexual engagement. They cause physical symptoms like pain, fatigue, nausea, swelling, and changes in hormone levels. They require treatments such as medications, surgeries, therapies, and lifestyle adjustments. The side effects can interfere with one's libido, orgasms, arousal, pleasure, sensation, intimacy, and satisfaction. Some illnesses may even make sex dangerous.
Many factors contribute to how trauma and illness impact sexual engagement. People experiencing trauma often have difficulty trusting themselves and others, which can impede intimacy and vulnerability during sex. They may avoid touch and physical contact, preferring non-sexual forms of connection. Traumatized individuals may not enjoy sex because it evokes painful memories or reminds them of violated boundaries. They may find sex too demanding, tiring, or risky. Illness can also lead to low self-esteem, body shame, embarrassment, anxiety, fear, and guilt. It can limit partner choices due to reduced availability, mobility, endurance, responsiveness, stamina, and desire.
Trauma survivors can heal by processing their experiences through psychotherapy, counseling, journaling, meditation, exercise, creative expression, spirituality, and social support. They can reconnect with themselves and others by practicing mindfulness, building emotional resilience, setting healthy boundaries, and seeking safe partners. Illness sufferers can improve sexual functioning by managing symptoms, adapting to physical changes, exploring alternative positions/techniques, reducing expectations, and communicating openly.
Trauma and illness affect sexual engagement in various ways. Both require special care and consideration from loved ones and healthcare professionals. By prioritizing safety, honesty, empathy, compassion, consent, respect, and communication, we can support each other's wellbeing and fulfillment in all aspects of life.
How do trauma and illness affect sexual engagement?
Trauma and illness can have profound effects on an individual's sexual engagement. Trauma can cause physical and mental health issues that make it difficult for people to engage in sexual activity. It can also lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety surrounding sex, which may further reduce interest and desire.