Despite stigmatisation, depression is a common condition affecting many people. Based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Trusted Source (CDC), approximately one in 20 Americans older than 12 has a form of depression. Types of depression include:

• persistent depression (symptoms persist for two years)

• psychotic depression

• major depression

• bipolar disorder

• Postpartum Depression (occurs in women who have had an infant)

• Seasonal affective disorder (occurs in the winter months)

• Depression and anxiety disorders are accompanied by depression.

If you're a victim, depression is more than being blue. It may cause a wide range of symptoms that include sexual health issues. Find out more about the connection between sexual health and depression and how to deal with it.

The Symptoms and Differences in Gender

Both women and men are prone to having issues initiating and having a sex experience due to depression. There are, however, different ways that depression affects men and women.

Women

According to NIMH, a higher incidence of depression among women is linked to hormonal shifts. This is the reason why women's chance of developing depression can rise:

• both before and during the menstrual cycle

• the following childbirth

• When you have to balance work, home when you have to balance home, work, and family

• Menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms

Women are more likely to suffer from constant "bluesy" feelings that could cause them to feel less confident and less valuable. These feelings can dramatically alter the way you view sex.

As women get older, physical changes can cause sex to be less enjoyable (and often painful). Vaginal wall changes could make sexual activities unpleasant. In addition, lower levels of estrogen can disrupt natural lubrication. This can be depressing for women who don't seek assistance to get relief.

Men

Depression, anxiety, and guilt are the most typical causes of erectile dysfunction. All of these are signs of depression; however, these issues may also be caused by the normal course of stress and ageing. According to the NIMH, men are more likely to be less interested in hobbies when they are depressed. This may also mean that men may not find the same sex appeal as women do.

In males, antidepressants can be directly connected to impermanence. Ejaculation that is delayed or not as long could also be a possibility.

For both genders experiencing issues in sexual health can lead to feelings of a lack of confidence and depression-related symptoms. This can lead to a vicious cycle of growing depression and dysfunctional sexuality.

Effects, Risk Factors, and Causes

Brain chemical imbalances are a cause of depression. They can happen by themselves because of hormonal and genetic issues. Depression may also be associated with other diseases. Whatever the cause of depression, the condition may produce a myriad of physical and emotional signs. The most frequent symptoms of depression are:

• an incessant sadness

• absence of interest in the activities you used to love

• despair and guilt

• fatigue and insomnia

• Stress and anxiety can cause irritability.

• Aches, weakness, and aches

• sexual dysfunction

• concentration difficulties

• weight loss or weight gain (usually due to changes in the way you eat)

• suicidal disposition

Treatment Options

Apart from the additions and adjustments in the treatment for depression, there are various other actions you can take that can improve your overall sexual health:

• Take an antidepressant dose after engaging in sex.

• Consult your physician about the possibility of adding a drug for sexual functions (such as Viagra for males).

• Regular exercise can improve your physical and mental well-being of yours.

• Discuss with your partner the ways that depression can affect your sexual well-being. A conversation that is open and honest may not solve the problem; however, it can relieve feelings of guilt or feeling of worthlessness.

• Medications, such as Viagra, Cialis, etc., can also help. 

Outlook

Depression and the treatment it requires can lead to issues regarding sexual health; however, there is hope for resolving these problems. Treatment for one condition can help both. However, finding the ideal balance may take some time and patience. While you're at it, don't change any medication at your discretion without consulting with your physician. Inform your doctor if your sexual dysfunction is worsening despite modifications to treatment.

It's also crucial to understand that depression and dysfunction in the sexual sphere are often inextricably linked; however, many causes can lead to problems regarding sexual health.

Diet and depression

When they're feeling depressed, people take food to cope or feel more at ease. But, the foods that they choose to eat can have a negative impact. Foods that are high in fat and calories when you're depressed may cause you to feel worse. One of the most damaging food items that have significant amounts of these:

• saturated fat

• refined sugars

• Highly processed ingredients that are heavily processed

• caffeine

A healthy and balanced diet and ensuring that you exercise regularly will help you control the symptoms of depression. It could even make them disappear completely.