In the modern world, sexual anxiety has become a widespread phenomenon.
It is also prevalent that individuals often do not seek treatment for this condition due to various reasons like shame, stigma, embarrassment, etc. This lack of seeking medical attention can lead to severe consequences that may affect their quality of life in the long run.
Effects of Untreated Sexual Anxiety
Sexual anxiety refers to an intense fear or worry about sexually transmitted diseases, having or performing intercourse, or being judged during any kind of sexual activity. When left untreated, it can have serious effects on one's physical, mental, emotional, and social health. Here are some of them:
Physical Health
Untreated sexual anxiety can lead to various physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, palpitations, insomnia, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, chest pain, muscle tension, and even heart attacks. These symptoms occur when the body releases stress hormones in response to fear or anxiety caused by sexual activities. People who suffer from sexual anxiety experience constant distress and nervousness before, during, and after sex, which further aggravates these symptoms.
Mental Health
The longer someone suffers from sexual anxiety without getting treated, they may start developing other mental health problems like depression, low self-esteem, body image issues, and even suicidal thoughts. It can make people feel isolated and alienated from society. They might find it difficult to build meaningful relationships with others due to their insecurities about intimacy. They may also develop eating disorders due to the pressure to meet certain standards set by society regarding their bodies.
Emotional Health
Unaddressed sexual anxiety can affect a person emotionally as well. It can cause feelings of guilt, shame, and embarrassment that can last for years. This lack of self-acceptance and negative self-talk can result in severe mood swings, irritability, anger outbursts, and difficulty maintaining positive relationships. Such individuals may become dependent on alcohol and drugs to cope with their emotions, leading to addiction and substance abuse problems.
Social Life
Untreated sexual anxiety leads to social isolation and withdrawal from social events. A person suffering from this condition finds it challenging to be around friends or family members because of the fear of being judged or rejected based on their physical appearance or performance during sexual acts. They may lose interest in hobbies and activities that involve socializing, causing them to lead an unhealthy lifestyle.
Treatment Options
There are several treatment options available for sexual anxiety. Some of them include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), mindfulness techniques, relaxation exercises, and sex therapy. CBT helps people identify and challenge their fears and worries about sex while exposure therapy exposes them gradually to situations that trigger their anxiety. SSRIs help balance brain chemicals responsible for depression and anxiety, and sex therapy addresses specific issues related to intimacy and intercourse. Mindfulness techniques and relaxation exercises help reduce stress levels and promote calmness.
What are the long-term effects of untreated sexual anxiety?
The long-term effects of untreated sexual anxiety can be damaging to an individual's mental health and social life. It is crucial that those experiencing this condition seek professional help from qualified therapists who specialize in treating sexual dysfunctions. Individuals with untreated sexual anxiety may experience decreased self-esteem, increased isolation, and difficulties maintaining relationships due to their inability to express themselves sexually.