Can stress cause a loss of sex drive?

Hi. It’s Jenny at AnxietyBoss.com. Our question today is from Addie in Franklinton, North Carolina. Can stress cause a loss of sex drive?

Yes. Stress can cause a loss of sex drive. You may be feeling stressed because of that new job or a new baby. Maybe your finances aren’t looking so great and you’re stressed about that. Whatever the reason may be, stress is one of the most commonly reported causes of a loss in sex drive. Because stress affects everybody differently, it may be hard to pinpoint what tactic will help you to overcome your decreased libido and to manage your stress overall.

First, figure out what’s causing your stress or at least most of it. Then although it may be much easier said than done, do something about it. If your schedule is packed and you just have no time to get in the mood with your loved one, prioritize your daily activities so that you can make time for you and what you want to do, as opposed to catering to everyone else’s needs.

Take a break. You deserve to be selfish sometimes. If you’re feeling stressed due to relationship conflictions and this is causing even greater conflictions, then it may be time to talk to your significant other and to figure out what to change. You’d be surprised how much saying everything that is on your mind can help in most situations.

If you find that self-help just isn’t doing the trick, there’s nothing wrong with seeing a therapist or a psychiatrist. They’re there to help you turn your life around and everything is confidential.