Let’s talk about sex, shall we? More to the point, let’s talk about the connection between intimacy and mental health. A lot of people shy away from this subject because of embarrassment or fear of awkward conversation. But sex and intimacy are extremely important when it comes to the state of our mental health.
What is Intimacy?
Intimacy is defined as a feeling of closeness with another person. This can be your spouse or partner, but also can be a close friend or family member. Often, these relationships are characterized as “interdependent, trusting, and committed.”
Physical intimacy, however, defines the actual spatial closeness of two people. This closeness usually involves a physical connection – hugging, kissing, and yes, sex.
Whether it’s physical or emotional, either can impact (and be impacted by) mental health. Let’s discuss some of these connections.
What Impact does Intimacy have on Mental Health?
There is a real connection between healthy and intimate relationships and good mental health. Close relationships can provide a strong support system to better manage mental illness. And the intimacy they provide can also help fight symptoms of certain mental health issues.
Emotional Intimacy
Trust and compassion are the foundation for an emotionally intimate relationship. This closeness offers a safe place to share feelings and fears about mental illness with trusted friends, family members, and partners. Here you can find support and guidance on your path to getting better.
Physical Intimacy
Simply put, we as humans are social creatures and are built to crave physical connection with others. Physical signs of affection can range from something as platonic as a hug or handshake – to something much more intimate like kissing or sex. Accepting and giving physical signs of affection can actually boost your mental health. No matter if it’s platonic or more physically intimate. Research has found that people that are deprived of physical touch actually suffer depression and mental health issues at a higher rate.
As mentioned, sexual experiences can have a meaningful effect on mental health. From a purely scientific standpoint, during sex the brain releases dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. These are all neurotransmitters that boost feelings of contentment and relaxation. They also work to cut stress hormone levels. This natural influx of chemicals can improve feelings of depression for a time.
Also, the physical exertion and the sleep perks that often accompany sexual intimacy can improve your daily health. All in all, they can diminish symptoms of depression and anxiety – as well as fatigue and stress.
Addressing Intimacy Issues
Ok, face it. If there are issues within your relationship that deal with intimacy, that can be a hard subject to broach. Especially with physical intimacy, those discussions can be difficult and uncomfortable. But having an emotionally strong relationship with your partner will lead to an easier path to discussion of physical intimacy.
Be frank and be open. If you are the one pulling back and turning away from physical intimacy, take a minute to look inward and see why that is. Is it exhaustion? Is it because of side effects from medication? Is there something you need to discuss with your partner, but you haven’t been able to bring it up?
There are many reasons why physical intimacy may become difficult. The counselors at Waters Edge can help you and your partner identify the issues and begin to work through them.
Benefits of Working Through Intimacy Issues
Many mental health benefits derive from fulfilling intimate relationships. Emotionally and physically, healthy intimacy can bring not only levels of pleasure and relaxation, but also take away symptoms of depression and anxiety.
If you are struggling with intimacy issues – whether emotional or physical – our counselors would love to have a chance to help. We specialize in both individual and couples/marriage counseling, and we have the tools to get you back on track. Our online scheduling system is easy and may relieve some of the hesitation in calling. We are here for you at Waters Edge Counseling – hope to hear from you soon.