Depression, PTSD and Sexual Dysfunction

[anonymousfox]

Why this poll?
I experience the symptomps myself. It started during the relationship and 1 month after the breakup it's still the same. I have a moderate depression, PTSD symptoms (mild and just some symptoms, no flashbacks f.e.) and sometimes erectile dysfunction I'd say 50% of the time (when engaged with others, I don't have ED when masturbating). I found some not very strong studies (but still), that suggest there is a direct correlation between depression, PTSD and SD/ED. I thought this forum is a great place, to collect some semi-biased data, about how many other people there are who experience those symptoms. This is why it would be really nice of you, if you could just answer None of the above, if you can just not relate with this poll.

This is the ChatGPT explanation between a relationship of those: (its a language model, not a truth teller, grain of salt applied)

There are significant overlaps between depression, PTSD, and sexual dysfunction in adults who have been in relationships with individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Here’s a breakdown of how these factors interrelate:

1. Depression
Emotional Roller Coaster: Relationships with BPD partners often involve intense emotional highs and lows. These fluctuations can create a sense of instability, leading to chronic stress and feelings of helplessness, which can foster depressive symptoms.
Self-Esteem Issues: BPD partners can sometimes idealize and then devalue their partners in ways that feel confusing or diminishing. Over time, this cycle can erode a person’s self-worth and lead to depression.
Impact on Libido: Depression often dampens sexual desire and can reduce energy levels, making it challenging to feel sexually responsive or confident.

2.PTSD and Trauma Bonding
Trauma Bonding: Intense and sometimes traumatic relational experiences with BPD partners can form trauma bonds. These are strong emotional connections that, despite any abuse or difficulty, make it hard to detach emotionally. Such bonds can resemble symptoms of PTSD, including intrusive thoughts, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness.
Triggers and Emotional Flashbacks: Some individuals develop PTSD-like symptoms, where they experience flashbacks or intense emotions related to the relationship. This ongoing stress response can interfere with sexual arousal and lead to feelings of emotional detachment during intimate moments.
Avoidance and Hyperarousal: PTSD symptoms, especially in the context of relational trauma, may manifest as avoidance of intimacy due to fear of further emotional hurt, hyperarousal, or trouble focusing on the present moment during sexual activities.

3.Sexual Dysfunction and ED
Interference of Stress and Anxiety: Chronic stress, anxiety, and unresolved trauma from a relationship can significantly impact sexual functioning. The psychological toll of being in an unpredictable or emotionally volatile relationship can reduce one’s sexual responsiveness and increase the likelihood of ED.
Negative Self-Perception and Performance Anxiety: Partners of individuals with BPD might develop performance anxiety, especially if there were instances of shame or devaluation in the relationship. The fear of “failing” to meet expectations can perpetuate erectile dysfunction and other forms of sexual dysfunction.
Detachment from Own Sexuality: Due to the emotional toll and the need to manage high levels of stress in such relationships, some individuals may feel disconnected from their own sexual needs or even their bodies. This detachment can contribute to challenges with sexual arousal, responsiveness, and maintaining erection.

4.Feedback Loop
These factors can create a feedback loop where symptoms reinforce one another. For example, depressive symptoms may lead to decreased libido, which can further exacerbate feelings of inadequacy or depression. Similarly, PTSD symptoms can worsen depression, making it harder to experience intimacy.

Therapeutic approaches that address this complex overlap—like trauma-focused therapy (EMDR), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and possibly support from a therapist experienced in relational trauma or BPD dynamics—can help in healing these areas and gradually restoring sexual functioning and overall emotional well-being.