SEXUAL FRUSTRATION AND DEPRESSION

In our present-day world, there is a growing prevalence of different sexual behaviors and orientations. The internet has played a role in creating expectations in what sex is supposed to feel like, making us think that we’re supposed to be having mind-blowing sex all the time.

No matter your relationship status whether you’re single or find yourself in a marriage that’s lacking intimacy, feeling sexually frustrated is no fun, nor is it something to ignore. Satiating your sex drive is important, as experts say it’s closely tied to the overall quality of life.

Sexual frustration is a perceived discontent originating from an incongruence between one’s sexual needs and what he/she is presently experiencing.

Simply put, sexual frustration occurs when we become agitated due to not being satisfied with our sex lives. Sexual frustration does not necessarily mean that you’re lacking sex or intimacy, but rather that you’re not satisfied with the sex or intimacy that you’re receiving.

This means that you can be having sex regularly and still feel sexually frustrated and equally, not be engaging in any sort of intimacy and experiencing the same form of sexual frustration.

Although it manifests differently in everybody, there are common signs that show sexual frustration which includes:

• Being quick-tempered
• Daydreaming about sex
• Frequent quarrels in the relationship
• Increased need for physical touch and connection
• Engaging in unhealthy coping skills (i.e., binge eating or drinking)

There are several factors that can cause sexual frustration and this includes:

• Lack of a Partner: You may be ready and available for sex, but finding a sex partner can be a lengthy and frustrating process. Even with the advent of technology to help with this, online dating can make some uncomfortable.
• Mismatched sexual needs: You might be having plenty of sex and still feel frustrated. Often, this has to do with a difference between how you and your partner(s) prefer to be intimate. You might be frustrated by the way your partner initiates, the specific ways they touch or stimulate you, their lack of creativity, their unwillingness to experiment in the bedroom, their selfishness in the bedroom, or their inability to talk about sex.
• Inability to communicate: Society has made talking about sex an uncomfortable topic which in turn affects individuals in stating what they want. People don’t always know how to communicate what they need, which can be very frustrating,

Medical factors such as anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunctions, Chronic pain, and diseases can influence sexual frustration.

Dealing with Sexual Frustration

• Communicate your needs to your partner:
• Be open to learning
• Find a common ground
• Get help from an expert
• Masturbate frequently
• Socialize with friends
• Exercise
• Find a partner if you are single but don’t forget to stay safe!