With the pandemic still raging across the globe, it makes perfect sense if you’re not feeling very horny right now.
After all, our collective mental health has suffered and we’ve been told to avoid contact with other people unless absolutely necessary – and now ordered to stay away from sex altogether, unless we are in an ‘established’ relationship.
New research has revealed that although a dip in libido is normal, many people are concerned they won’t get the urge back.
Findings from a survey conducted by Blueheart, a digital sex therapy app, exclusively shared with Metro.co.uk, show that 55% of Brits worry they will never be interested in sex again.
In fact, 41% are trying to make themselves ‘unattractive’ to their partner by not showering or covering themselves up in layers, in order to avoid getting freaky in the sheets.
Others are distracting themselves with TV and video games (29%).
Out of the 2,559 participants, all of whom are currently dealing with a low sex drive, just over one in five have talked to their partner about it.
Loss of libido is very common.
It can happen to anyone at any time and there is a range of reasons that could be the cause, from circumstantial events (grief, losing a job, isolation etc.) which negatively affect mental health, to body image issues, physical problems like erectile dysfunction or vaginal dryness, and more.
Among the survey participants specifically, 27% feel ashamed of their body, while 52% suffer from anxiety, fear and nervousness when their partner tries to initiative sex.
Nearly a third (27%) feel bored or numb to the activity.
‘Low libido – like many other forms of sexual dysfunction – can be a real taboo subject,’ says Dr. Katherine M. Hertlein, couples therapist, sexuality educator and expert advisor at Blueheart.
‘People are ashamed to discuss how they’re feeling for fear of being judged, as culturally we put a huge amount of pressure on people (particularly young people) to want to have sex all the time.
‘There’s a big focus on what we “should” want and what’s perceived as “normal”, but when it comes to sex there really is no “normal”.
‘Everyone has different preferences, drives and desires.
‘Despite the ongoing narrative about an imminent “baby boom”, the recent months haven’t necessarily been a catalyst for many peoples’ libido.
‘High levels of financial stress, job insecurity and health anxiety have been the reality for many and stress might cause a loss or drop in libido.
‘Some couples might also be experiencing intensified living situations, spending increased amounts of time at home with their partners.
‘We are social creatures, but we also need our own space. People often underestimate how big of an impact a variety of lifestyle factors can have on sex drive.
‘This is especially true for couples with children, who have had less privacy due to a lack of childcare in lockdown.
‘But low libido is incredibly common and also something that can be addressed with the right combination of help and support.’
If you are worried about your sex drive, speak to your local GP or visit a sexual health clinic for help.
You can also seek advice from therapists or medical professionals online (but ensure it is from a reputable service).
Furthermore, the NHS suggests visiting the Sexual Advice Association website, where you can find more information on loss of libido.
Dr Hertlein adds: ‘Therapy is a very useful tool individuals can use to regain control of their body, thought patterns and sexual relationship with their partner.
‘Low libido is nothing to be ashamed of and working through these issues and reconnecting with your body in a safe and supportive environment is a helpful way to understand and resolve it.
‘There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but what is certain is that those individuals worried that they’ll never be interested in sex again must not give up hope.
‘You can seek help to reclaim your sex life and achieve balance and fulfilment in your sex life.’
Do you have a story you’d like to share?
Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
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source https://metro.co.uk/2020/10/12/over-half-of-brits-worry-they-will-never-want-to-have-sex-again-says-survey-13408065/
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