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What causes premature ejaculation?
Factor beyond hormone: What impacts male sexual health and why it is related to mental wellbeing
Sexual problems in men can occur on and off and at any age and most of them can be easily dealt with
Dr Lalitha Palle June 19, 2023 16:57:15 IST
This article is a repost which originally appeared on Firstpost.
Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.
Key Points
‧ Testosterone and sperm level decline, hormonal imbalances, and male pattern baldness are becoming a more common occurrence in younger men.
‧ It’s believed various contributing factors are the cause.
‧ Negative relationship dynamics and emotional concerns can contribute to worsening sexual health.
The topic of male sexual health has gained importance recently as an alarming number of reports reveal reduced male hormones i.e Testosterone levels, in younger men, reduced sperm counts, and increasing incidence of erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, male Infertility or impotence and early onset of male pattern baldness among younger men, becomes a common occurrence.
There are also reports that state that with the alarming rate of male hormone imbalance, India is set to become the Impotency capital of the world! It is thus high time that we take note of this silent yet fast-spreading condition and start by understanding its causes and impact and how we can at least start by destigmatizing conversations around male sexual health.
Male sexual health is influenced by a variety of factors, including physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. While physical factors such as hormonal balance, cardiovascular health, and neurological function play important roles, mental well-being can significantly impact male sexual health for several reasons:
Psychological Factors: Sexual desire, arousal, and performance can be influenced by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. Negative emotions and mental health conditions can affect libido, sexual confidence, and overall sexual satisfaction.
Relationship Dynamics: The quality of relationships and emotional connection with a partner can have a significant impact on male sexual health. Relationship issues, unresolved conflicts, or lack of intimacy can contribute to sexual difficulties and dissatisfaction.
Performance Anxiety: Many men experience performance anxiety, which is the fear of not being able to perform sexually to their or their partner’s satisfaction. This anxiety can stem from various sources, such as societal expectations, personal insecurities, or previous negative sexual experiences. Performance anxiety which is very common, especially in younger men, can interfere with sexual arousal, leading to erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation.
Body Image and Self-esteem: Body image concerns and self-esteem can affect sexual health. Men who have negative perceptions of their bodies may feel self-conscious and anxious during sexual encounters, impacting their ability to fully engage in the experience.
Stress and Lifestyle Factors: High levels of stress, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and poor self-care can contribute to sexual health problems. Stress can disrupt hormone production, reduce libido, and impair sexual performance. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise can also negatively impact sexual function.
It is essential to address both the physical and mental aspects of male sexual health. Seeking support from healthcare professionals, therapists, or counsellors can help individuals navigate and address the underlying psychological factors that may be affecting their sexual well-being. Open communication with partners, healthy lifestyles, and stress management can also contribute to overall sexual health and satisfaction. Sexual problems in men can occur on and off and at any age and most of them can be easily dealt with. Not speaking or discussing them will only lead to a vicious cycle of negative mental health and poor performance. Men should break free from the so-called ‘taboos’ and ‘stigmas’ to improve their lives’ quality.
The Impact of Erectile Dysfunction and Peyronie’s Disease on Men’s Lives
By Sarah Lowe – June 9, 2023
This article is a repost which originally appeared on PR NEWS BLOG
Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.
Key Points
‧ ED sufferers often have challenges maintaining sexually healthy relationships.
‧ Peyronie’s can be painful when the bend get severe enough.
‧ Men should realize they are not alone in their suffering with ED and Peyronie’s.
Men’s sexual health is crucial for their general well-being. Most men feel confident in their usual day to day life when their sexual function is working properly. Unfortunately, there are some medical conditions that can cause a pernicious impact on sexual function in men. Peryronie’s disease and Erectile Dysfunction happen to be two such medical conditions that can cause abject misery to sufferers. (https://www.russillo.com/) Erectile Dysfunction is identified by the inability of achieving and maintaining erection during sexual activity and Peyronie’s disease is identified by the curvature of the penis which causes pain during erection. Issues like these can have a monumental, negative impact on men’s lives. In this article, we will try to explain how ED and PD can negatively affect the lives of men.
Physical Implications:
1. Erectile Dysfunction:
ED can hinder sexual performance and intimate relationships, leading to frustration, disappointment, and loss of sexual confidence. The physical inability to engage in sexual activities can strain relationships and cause feelings of inadequacy, guilt, and shame. Additionally, the stress and anxiety associated with ED can further exacerbate the condition, creating a vicious cycle.
2. Peyronie’s Disease:
Peyronie’s disease not only causes physical pain during erections but can also result in a significant penile curvature, making sexual intercourse difficult or impossible. The discomfort and embarrassment associated with the condition can lead to decreased sexual desire and avoidance of intimacy in men with PD altogether. Moreover, the distorted appearance of the penis may prevent sexual intercourse and cause self-consciousness and a negative body image, leading to feelings of isolation and depression.
Emotional and Psychological Impact:
1. Erectile Dysfunction:
The emotional toll of ED can be profound, causing feelings of frustration, low self-esteem, and depression. Men may feel inadequate and worry about their ability to satisfy their partners, leading to anxiety and performance-related stress. The fear of rejection or judgment can further contribute to emotional distress and hinder the development of healthy sexual relationships.
2. Peyronie’s Disease:
The psychological consequences of Peyronie’s disease can be equally debilitating. Men may experience embarrassment and ignominy due to the abnormal curvature of their penis. They may avoid seeking intimate relationships or withdraw from existing ones, fearing judgment or rejection. This isolation can result in feelings of loneliness, depression, and a loss of overall well-being.
Relationship Challenges:
1. Erectile Dysfunction:
ED can strain relationships, leading to communication breakdown, frustration, and a decline in emotional and physical intimacy. Partners may feel unattractive or blame themselves for their partner’s condition, causing feelings of inadequacy on both sides. The lack of sexual satisfaction and connection can lead to emotional distance, resentment, and, in severe cases, even relationship breakdowns. So, dating with Erectile Dysfunction can be very dangerous.
2. Peyronie’s Disease:
The physical and emotional challenges posed by Peyronie’s disease can also impact relationships. The pain and curvature associated with the condition may make sexual intercourse uncomfortable or impossible, leading to frustration and decreased intimacy. Partners may struggle to understand and support the affected individual, adding strain to the relationship. Open communication, empathy, and seeking professional help are crucial to navigate these challenges.
Seeking Help and Treatment Options:
1. Erectile Dysfunction:
It is important for men experiencing ED to recognize that they are not alone and that effective treatments are available. Seeking help from healthcare professionals, such as urologists or sexual health specialists, can provide a comprehensive evaluation of the underlying causes and appropriate treatment for Erectile Dysfunction. These may include lifestyle changes, medication, psychotherapy, surgical interventions or modern non-invasive treatments. Non-invasive treatments like shockwave therapy for ED and EMTT therapy have become very popular in recent years because of their ease of use and very little side-effects.
2. Peyronie’s Disease:
Men with PD should consult with a urologist specializing in sexual medicine or a Peyronie’s disease specialist. Treatment options may include oral medication, injectable medications, shockwave therapy or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition. Though shockwave therapy for Peyronie’s disease is a relatively new treatment option, it is very effective in breaking down the plaques within the penis. Psychological support and counselling can also play a crucial role in managing the emotional and psychological impact of the disease. For more information about Peyronie’s Disease, visit https://peyroniesforum.co.uk/
Conclusion:
So, men can suffer from Peyronie’s disease and ED both physically and mentally. If a man is experiencing these sexual issues, then it becomes really hard for him to maintain a healthy relationship with his partner and also to stay focused in day-to-day tasks. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments available to aid men in these kinds of scenarios. But just like any other treatment options, it’s advisable to get these treatments from reputable clinics who have prior experiences in treating these kinds of sexual issues in men. One such clinic is Shockwave Clinics Ltd. It is a London based clinic which specializes in treating ED, PD and other male sexual issues using revolutionary shockwave therapy. The clinic also offers other non-invasive treatments like EMTT therapy, Tesla Chair and NanoVi.
Young, Single, Not Ready to Mingle: Relationships, Mental Health, ED
A study ties depression, anxiety and lack of a partner to erectile dysfunction in younger men.
Author: James Anderson
Published: February 20, 2023
This article is a repost which originally appeared on Giddy
Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.
Key Points
‧ The quality of a relationship will have an impact on sexual performance.
‧ Anxiety can lead to low libido and ED.
‧ Problems arise when anxiety medication side effects add to sexual performance issues.
A single man in his late 20s occasionally dates but hasn’t been on a date in some time. He has sex infrequently. That’s been the case for a few years, maybe about a decade.
He has developed depression and anxiety. He has struggled with those mental health issues for a while, and now he has problems getting erections. When he does get hard, his penis doesn’t remain that way for long, certainly not long enough to enjoy penetrative intercourse.
He’s been saying to himself, “Man, I’ve been single for so long. I feel broken because of my mental health issues, and now I can’t even get it up or keep it up. Nobody is going to want to be with me.”
Any young guy experiencing mental health issues and erectile dysfunction (ED) should know there’s hope. Their situation is not as dire as it might seem, according to Ravi Hariprasad, M.D., M.P.H., a psychiatrist with Intuitive Psychiatry in San Francisco.
“His first step was recognizing the problem and seeking help and taking the steps required to make the situation better,” Hariprasad said about the hypothetical young man.
Relatively young single men who suffer from both a chronic mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression, and ED are not alone, contrary to what they might fear. There’s not only hope for them, but also help and coping strategies available.
Risk factors for depression, anxiety and ED
Authors of a study first published in 2020 in the Journal of Urology found an association between relationship status, mental health and ED. The mental health and ED link appeared common among a sample of 2,660 sexually active men between 18 and 31 years of age. About 14 percent reported some form of ED. Anxiety and tranquilizer use were associated with greater odds of moderate-to-severe ED; antidepressant use was associated with more than three times the odds of moderate-to-severe ED. Married men and those with partners were 65 percent less likely than single guys to experience it in moderate-to-severe form.
“This information may not necessarily function the same way when reversed and used as a predictive model of whether a young single man may be at risk of having or developing ED of any severity,” according to Joshua Poole, M.D., a psychiatrist in California who works with Open Mind Health, a virtual mental wellness network. “It more so tells us that those surveyed who were already partnered were less likely to have moderate to severe ED.”
We don’t yet have definitive data clarifying just how relationship status, mental health and sexual dysfunction relate to each other, however, Poole said.
“Clinically, I have witnessed that the quality of the relationship frequently has more to do with sexual dysfunction than the presence or absence of a relationship,” he explained. “There are many instances where a relationship can be the source of both mental health issues and sexual dysfunction. In speaking to therapists who specialize in sex therapy, I have often been told that a great deal of sexual dysfunction is actually the result of emotional dysfunction in the dynamic of a relationship.”
For young men, the major risk factors for developing anxiety and depression include genetics, stress, and drug and alcohol problems, said Eric Yarbrough, M.D., a psychiatrist based in New York City. Like Poole, though, he doesn’t consider the relationship between partner status and mental health clear-cut.
“Some people have relationships which are healthy and supportive,” he said. “Others might have relationships which cause them stress and do more harm than good. There are reasons to be single and reasons to be in a relationship, but they are highly individual and relative.”
Nevertheless, several factors might account for the association observed in the study.
Ways mental health interferes with sexual health
Anxiety and depression can both lead to low libido, ejaculatory dysfunction and ED, Poole explained.
Those mental health conditions, Hariprasad suggested, can keep someone from being present and can interfere with their ability to focus when trying to have sex.
“This can make it more difficult for men to achieve and maintain an erection, leading to erectile dysfunction,” he said in an email. “Additionally, single men may be more likely to be in sexual relationships with less familiar partners, which can lead to increased feelings of anxiety, further exacerbating erectile dysfunction.”
There’s nothing mysterious regarding the comparatively lower prevalence of sexual dysfunction among men in emotionally supportive, multidimensional and close partnerships vis-à-vis young single men, Hariprasad said.
“I’ve seen over these years of our Tinder culture—our hookup culture—people are losing these other dimensions of friendship and intimacy in relationships, and that’s leading to some of this difficulty,” he said in reference to struggling single men. “Contrary to what the media says, the novelty of having sex with a partner you don’t know is not universally arousing. It can be terrifying to some, and it can activate feelings of insecurity and anxiety in others, none of which are very sexy.”
In contrast, as Hariprasad stressed, arousal can emerge from intimacy.
Conversely, frequent masturbation and excess ejaculation can exacerbate the cycle of mental health issues contributing to relationship difficulties and vice versa, he said, adding that porn consumption often gets paired with incessant masturbation, and that can cause another vicious cycle. Watching a lot of porn can desensitize someone to the amount of stimulus needed for arousal, which could result in ED, Hariprasad explained.
“Often, people are not watching the entire clip,” he said. “They’re just fast-forwarding to the components that are highly arousing, and that’s leading to an inappropriate mental patterning of the sexual response cycle that’s not often conducive to a normal sexual response cycle with a partner.”
Therapy and coping strategies
So what can the young, single guy dealing with ED as well as anxiety and/or depression do to address his problems?
Yarbrough would advise the man to prioritize treating his anxiety and depression since the conditions can affect myriad facets of life, from work to family to friendships to romance. He should also see a primary care physician to rule out any potential health problems that could be causing the mental health difficulties.
“After all of this, a person can explore their sexual history and views on sex to understand how they might be affecting his ability to maintain an erection,” he said.
Poole cautioned that the gold standard for treating both anxiety and depression has a reputation for contributing to sexual dysfunction. These are typically antidepressants derived from the family of medications that includes selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).
“It’s a tricky thing when the treatment for a problem can also cause the problem,” he acknowledged.
If ED results as a side effect of antidepressant medication, Poole recommended decreasing the dose or switching to a medication that doesn’t worsen the patient’s mood disorder.
Nonpharmaceutical strategies, including practicing breathing techniques to help in the moment and writing a journal to identify and alter spiraling negative thoughts, can help some people cope with anxiety and depression.
Certain physical activities, done regularly, have been shown to be potentially helpful, such as the following:
‧ Practice stress-management techniques, such as meditation and yoga
‧ Engage in mindful movements like tai chi
‧ Adopt a proper sleep schedule
‧ Avoid excess caffeine
‧ Eat a balanced diet
CBD oil might be a mild therapeutic option for some folks struggling with anxiety and depression. Assistance from professionals in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be a talk therapy tool worth exploring to pinpoint triggers and manage symptoms.
A new lens for sexual behavior
Hariprasad affirmed talk therapy and lifestyle changes as treatment possibilities.
“Then, in parallel, we’d need to change your sexual behaviors and hygiene so that you’re more likely to succeed,” he said.
Depending on the person, that could involve cutting back on masturbation and time spent viewing porn.
Since a lack of exercise for the muscles in the pelvic floor can make them lax, potentially leading to problems like premature ejaculation and ED, Kegel exercises can be useful, he added.
“A lot of literature and common knowledge has been about Kegel exercises for women,” Hariprasad said. “And what’s not appreciated is that the same set of exercises can be used by men to enhance their performance. I think it’s one of the single-most helpful things that someone could do as a practice, is [to] learn to isolate those muscles and exercise them so they’re stronger.”
Doing Kegels, together with exercise for the abdominal muscles, might enable men to improve the quality of their erections and their ejaculatory control, he added.
Hariprasad further suggested that guys in their 20s and 30s could begin to address the entanglement of issues that stand in the way of good psychological health, erections and relationships by learning how to form close, meaningful connections.
“That means forming friendships and then learning to have intimacy in those friendships—not necessarily seeking sexual encounters—and allowing the sexuality to arise organically from within those intimate, connected, safe relationships,” he said.
“Taken all together, this strategy has helped countless men I’ve worked with over the years reboot their sexual life and get their life and self-esteem back in order. But [men need] to understand that the situation is hopeful. [The work] just needs to be done methodically and patiently,” Hariprasad concluded.
It’s not always easy for men to seek help, especially for something as personal and sensitive as erection troubles. Plus, a lot of people don’t have a therapist they see regularly, so it’s not always intuitive to take that first step. Video visits have become a viable option for most people, and more physicians and therapists have added them as a service. Giddy telehealth makes it easy to get connected to a qualified healthcare professional who can help with a variety of mental and physical health conditions.
Can Low Testosterone Cause Anxiety and Depression?
October 6, 2022 / Men’s Health
Low testosterone levels can mimic symptoms of depression and cause anxiety over time
This article is a repost which originally appeared on Cleveland Clinic healthessentials.
Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.
Our takes:
‧ Low testosterone will manifest itself via several symptoms.
‧ Depression can be a symptom but can also be a contributing factor to developing low T.
‧ Having too high levels of T may result in irritability/becoming easily angered.
If you’re experiencing low sex drive, diminishing energy and overall fatigue, you may feel like it’s just another part of getting older. But if you’re a man or a person assigned male at birth (AMAB) and you’re experiencing a host of physical symptoms, coupled with a consistent depressive mood, you could actually be dealing with hypogonadism (low testosterone) or undiagnosed depression.
But figuring out whether you’re dealing with depression or low testosterone is tricky and requires further examination from a healthcare provider. Urologist Lawrence Hakim, MD, explains more about the connection between low testosterone and your mood, and how these conditions may be related.
How low testosterone impacts your mood
Androgens, including testosterone, are the hormones that give people their “male” and “female” characteristics. They also play a critical role in puberty, the development of your sexual reproductive system and your ability to reproduce.
You can think of all hormones, including androgens, like switches on a circuit board: When the production of these hormones are turned on or off, different things happen. You can experience physical, mental and emotional changes whenever production of these hormones increase, decrease or stop completely. The severity of these changes can vary widely from one hormone to the next, and these changes don’t happen in a vacuum. When the levels of one hormone changes, others may change in response. An increase in one hormone might mean a decrease in others. And when you have these hormonal imbalances, it can cause a variety of conditions to develop.
Testosterone levels tend to decrease normally as you get older, but they can also fluctuate for many reasons. Studies show these changes in testosterone can impact your mood in different ways. And these changes can occur in response to many different factors, including stress, lack of sleep, changes in your diet, aging and increasing or decreasing your physical activity.
If your testosterone levels are too high, for example, you may feel irritable or quick to anger. In comparison, low testosterone can make you feel extremely tired, depressed, weak or low in energy.
“People with hypogonadism, or low testosterone, will often say they have no energy, no desire for sexual activity and that they noticed a decrease in muscle mass,” says Dr. Hakim.
“In fact, hypogonadism is often associated with increased fat mass and reduced muscle mass, which can lead to obesity and other health risks, including cardiovascular disease. Those are all common signs and symptoms that may be associated with low testosterone.”
Signs and symptoms of low testosterone and depression
Low testosterone and depression share a lot of the same symptoms, including:
‧ Irritability.
‧ Mood swings.
‧ Decreased libido.
‧ Fatigue.
‧ Lack of motivation.
‧ Social withdrawal.
‧ Anxiety.
‧ Difficulty focusing.
‧ Interrupted sleep and restlessness.
“When we say people are depressed, what are we describing? We’re often describing someone as having low energy and no desire to partake in activities that normally bring them pleasure — these are common things we see with low testosterone, too,” notes Dr. Hakim. “Sometimes, people are actually misdiagnosed with clinical depression and they might instead have low testosterone or hypogonadism. It is therefore important to rule-out a physical cause of the condition, such as hypogonadism, prior to treatment.”
Various physical symptoms may be associated with either depression or low testosterone. People who have depression might complain of back pain or neck pain, but might not experience other symptoms typically associated with low testosterone that include:
‧ Decrease in muscle mass.
‧ Increase in breast tissue.
‧ Loss of strength.
‧ Sudden weight gain.
‧ Erectile dysfunction
And if you also have depression or even an anxiety disorder, your symptoms may worsen over time if low testosterone levels are leading to a further decline in sexual performance and libido.
“If you come in to see your doctor with any of these symptoms, especially if you have some form of sexual dysfunction, it is important to evaluate your total and free testosterone levels, since hypogonadism may be the underlying cause,” advises Dr. Hakim. “You don’t want to ignore low testosterone. You want to address it as well as look for any other underlying diagnosis that needs to be addressed.”
When to see a doctor
If you’re experiencing physical symptoms like sudden weight gain or decrease in your sex drive or sexual performance and other mental and emotional symptoms, you should talk to a doctor about testing your testosterone levels. There are many effective treatment options to restore your testosterone levels to the normal range, if your testosterone levels are abnormally low. But even if you discover you don’t have low testosterone levels, understanding those test results will often provide some reassurance and help your healthcare provider better understand and manage your symptoms.
“Many of these symptoms, especially as men get older, can be due to other factors such as stress, anxiety, pressure, work, aging, relationship issues and even other medications,” says Dr. Hakim. “Ultimately, a multispecialty approach is important to assure the best outcomes and patient satisfaction.”
Depression and erectile dysfunction: The link, causes, and treatment
What to know about depression and erectile dysfunction
Medically reviewed by Nicole Washington, DO, MPH — By Mary West on November 14, 2022
This article is a repost which originally appeared on MEDICAL NEWS TODAY.
Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.
Our takes:
‧ There are many potential causes of Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
‧ Anxiety and emotional stress appear to be common underlying factors.
‧ Medical professional assistance is available for treating ED.
Research has shown that there is a link between the two conditions. If a person has depression, they have a higher risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED).
The above information comes from a 2018 review published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine.
Researchers do not fully understand the connection. However, theories suggest the underlying causes may include sexual performance anxiety or antidepressant side effects.
If a person with depression experiences ED, their doctor may prescribe a medication such as sildenafil (Viagra). Alternatively, they may recommend trying a different antidepressant.
Read on to learn about the symptoms of ED, how depression can cause it, treatment options, and more.
Signs and symptoms of erectile dysfunction
The signs of ED include‧:
‧ ability to get an erection only sometimes, despite a desire to have sex
‧ inability to get an erection at any time
‧ ability to get an erection, but being unable to sustain it throughout sex
Can depression cause erectile dysfunction?
Research from 2018 evaluates 49 studies to determine the relationship between depression and ED. It finds that a person with depression was 39% more likely to have ED than a person without depression.
Experts do not fully understand the factors that underlie how depression may cause ED. However, the current theories include:
‧ Behavioral: Depression involves negative thoughts and low mood. Either or both can lead to performance anxiety that hinders erectile function.
‧ Antidepressants: Many people with depression take antidepressant medications to manage their symptoms. However, these medications can cause low libido and inhibit the ability to have or maintain an erection.
‧ Low testosterone: The male hormone, testosterone, plays a key role in sexual performance. As such, low levels often correlate to ED. There is an association between depression and low testosterone levels in men.
The previously mentioned 2018 review also finds that people with ED are 192% more likely to have depression. This means that the link between depression likely goes both ways. For example, a person with depression may have ED for the reasons listed above. Similarly, a person with ED may also be more likely to experience depression.
Low self-esteem, self-consciousness about sexual performance, and other negative thoughts could contribute to depression in people with ED.
Other causes
There are a wide variety of factors besides depression that can cause ED. They include:
physical health conditions, such as:
‧ type 2 diabetes
‧ high blood pressure
‧ heart and blood vessel disease
‧ multiple sclerosis
‧ Peyronie’s disease (curvature of the penis)
‧ chronic kidney disease
‧ surgery for bladder cancer
‧ injury to the penis or pelvic area
certain medications, including:
‧ antidepressants, such as fluoxetine (Prozac)
‧ blood pressure drugs, such as atenolol (Tenormin)
‧ tranquilizers, such as diazepam (Valium)
‧ antiandrogens (medications that block the effects of testosterone), such as bicalutamide (Casodex)
‧ appetite suppressants, such as phentermine (Adipex-P)
Mental health factors can also increase a person’s likelihood of ED. In addition to depression, these include:
‧ anxiety
‧ low self-esteem
‧ fear of sexual failure
‧ stress
‧ guilt about certain sexual activities
Treatment options
Treatment for ED and depression includes medication, lifestyle changes, and psychotherapy. The treatment a healthcare professional recommends depends on the underlying cause of a person’s symptoms.
Medications for erectile dysfunction
Older research from 2001 explains when depression and ED occur simultaneously, treating one condition may improve the other. The findings indicate that treating ED with Viagra can alleviate the issue and lead to a notable reduction in depression.
Despite this, the research did not investigate how long the improvement lasts.
Doctors commonly prescribe Viagra for ED. It works by relaxing the muscle and increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal. Other medications in the class include:
‧ vardenafil (Levitra)
‧ avanafil (Stendra)
‧ tadalafil (Cialis)
Additionally, if a person has low testosterone, a doctor may prescribe supplemental hormones.
Another treatment option that can trigger an erection is alprostadil. This comes in the form of an injection (Caverject) or a suppository (Muse).
Medication change for depression
A study from 2017 notes that sexual dysfunction is a common side effect of many antidepressants. For that reason, changing medication can help. Low libido and difficulty maintaining an erection are common side effects of antidepressants. However, some medications are less likely to have these effects.
The study’s authors recommend the following antidepressants for people who consider sexual functioning important:
‧ desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
‧ trazodone
‧ vortioxetine (Trintellix)
‧ vilazodone
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes may also reduce symptoms‧ of ED. These changes include:
‧ stopping smoking, if applicable
‧ eating a nutritious diet
‧ exercising regularly
‧ maintaining a moderate weight
‧ limiting or stopping recreational drug use, if applicable
Psychotherapy
The following psychotherapy interventions may help a person manage the emotional and psychological effects of depression and ED.
‧ Sex therapy: This involves counseling partners about their relationship or sex-related concerns.
‧ Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This helps a person identify unhelpful thoughts and develop healthier ways of responding to challenges.
‧ Mindfulness therapy: This mental exercise consists of focusing on the present moment.
When to contact a doctor
If a person thinks they may have ED, it is a good idea to make an appointment with a doctor.
Additionally, people should seek medical attention if they have symptoms of depression. The sad feelings associated with depression last weeks and months, not days.
If they have suicidal thoughts, they should get immediate medical attention.
Suicide prevention
If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:
Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
Listen to the person without judgment.
Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.
Click here for more links and local resources.
Summary
People with depression are more likely to have ED, and ED is also associated with higher rates of depression. Symptoms of ED include being unable to attain and sustain an erection long enough to have sex.
If a person has both depression and ED, treating one condition is likely to improve the other. Medication and psychotherapy interventions, such as mindfulness, may help someone manage both conditions.
Sources:
Chokka, P. R., et al. (2017). Assessment and management of sexual dysfunction in the context of depression.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2045125317720642
Liu, Q., et al. (2018). Erectile dysfunction and depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
https://www.jsm.jsexmed.org/article/S1743-6095(18)31007-5/fulltext
Lue, T. (n.d.). Erectile dysfunction (ED).
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/erectile-dysfunction
Overview – clinical depression. (2019).
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/clinical-depression/overview/
Seidman, S. N., et al. (2001). Treatment of erectile dysfunction in men with depressive symptoms: Results of a placebo-controlled trial with sildenafil citrate.
https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.158.10.1623
Walther, A., et al. (2019). Association of testosterone treatment with alleviation of depressive symptoms in men.
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2712976
Biohacking: Does it really slow ageing process and enhance human performance? Experts explain
Ishaan Arora 13 June 2022 11:50 AM
This article is a repost which originally appeared on News9
Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.
Biohacking aids in the alleviation or reduction of symptoms associated with mental health such as depression and anxiety.
Highlights
‧ The term biohacking gained a lot of popularity after former Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey told his followers that he benefitted both mentally and physically from biohacking.
‧ Biohacking is typically safe as long as you don’t go too far and follow your doctor or specialist’s guidelines.
‧ Experts advocate that individuals who don’t understand, health, nutrition, neuroscience, and brain function should not try biohacking.
So you’re sick of being average? You desire more from your life and job. Netflix, wine, margaritas, reels, and nachos have all made you want to stay in bed. Sure, you’ve heard of productivity hacks, but what if one told you that the solution to your problem is ‘biohacking’, also known as ‘do-it-yourself’ biology.
The term biohacking gained a lot of popularity after former Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey told his followers that he benefitted both mentally and physically from biohacking. Jack stated that biohacking enhanced his productivity, pointing out that he only eats one meal per day during the week and doesn’t eat at all on weekends. Some even claim that biohacking can help with almost anything – right from weight loss to cognitive function. However, the best biohacking results come from recognising what works for your body and avoiding what doesn’t. So to understand the real science behind biohacking, News9 spoke with some of the best experts in the world and here`s everything you need to know about it.
What is Biohacking?
Kolkata-based psychiatrist Dr Era Dutta explains, “Biohacking is the attempt at augmenting your performance, health and wellbeing through specific interventions. The term is meant to create the association of hacking – meaning creating a shortcut way through for your biology.”
“You can ‘biohack’ your mind, your body, your nutrition, exercise, sleep and more,” she continues. The beauty of biohacking is that it is DIY – do it yourself (with or without guidance). The process involves testing, monitoring and trying various combinations.
“Biohacking means different things to different people and is truly a very broad concept,” explains Vijeta Goyal, a Bangalore-based wellness consultant. “The notion is as follows: manipulating the biochemical processes in your body to bring about the best healthy version of yourself. The primary goal is self-improvement,” Vijeta adds.
Biohacking, according to Mumbai-based neurologist Dr Parthvi Ravat, is a technology-assisted strategy for modifying “homeostasis,” which refers to the body’s internal environment. “Simply put,” she says, “it is the use of science to support our bodies in boosting physical and mental performance, as well as battling various disorders.”
According to Shreya Gupta, a Chennai-based life coach, biohacking is something you instruct yourself to do. “It’s as if you tell yourself to exercise, so you get yourself a Fitbit or an Apple Watch to motivate yourself,” Shreya adds.
Biohacking is a science-based method of assisting our bodies in improving physical and mental performance as well as combating various ailments.
What are the most widely used bio-hacking tools?
In today’s world, we have access to commercially available tools and devices which are far more powerful than what even the most advanced clinics and researchers had only a few decades ago, remarks Supriya, a Delhi-based holistic health coach. Blood tests and health monitors give an extra edge in determining whether or not something is wrong with our bodies, Supriya explains.
“These days, I’m experimenting with taking ice-cold showers with water that’s 10 degrees celsius, and I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the condition of my skin and hair, and I’m tracking how it affects my natural hormone levels,” she further adds.
According to Dr Era Dutta, the most prevalent tools are:
Nutrition
Eliminating foods like gluten, and dairy; intermittent fasting.
Mental health
Cold baths, Wimhoff method, breathing pattern work, cryo chambers and meditation
Sleep
Melatonin supplements, white noise apps, weighted blankets, light therapy
Nootropics
A nootropic is claimed to be a class of substances that can boost brain performance. They can range from the more globally tried and accepted omega 3 fatty acids to Ginkgo Biloba to the more controversial use of ADHD stimulants, and micro-dosing of psychotropics.
Vitamins
Supplements of vitamins, infusions for better overall health. For example Vitamin B complex, micronutrients etc.
Adaptogens
Adaptogens are plants and mushrooms that help your body respond to stress, anxiety, fatigue, and overall well-being like Ayurvedic herb ashwagandha
Apps and technology
Wearable rings that monitor your body stats, EEG headsets that measure waves during meditation, sleep, mood changes etc.
More extreme
Nutrigenomics focuses on how the food you eat interacts with your genes and manipulates them.
According to Vijeta Goyal, biohacking comes in many forms. Some of them are as listed below:
Changes in lifestyle and diet
These include more conventional behaviours like yoga and meditation, eating consciously and healthily, spending time in nature, engaging in enjoyable exercise, and sleeping well, which you may not even realise are part of biohacking.
Technology
Don’t we appreciate our smartwatches, fitness trackers, and smart clothing? Have you ever considered your fitness tracker or weight-loss app to be biohacking? Biohacking is defined as the use of wearable technology to track your steps, remind you to drink water, or stand up and stretch – and it may be highly beneficial.
Grinders
Many people believe implanted technology to be the next step, although it has yet to become ubiquitous. Grinders, in general, aid in the optimisation of bodies by chemical injections, implants, and anything else that can be injected into the body to help humans grow smarter, quicker, and better.
Nutrigenomics
Nutrigenomics is the study of how food interacts with and influences your genes.
How safe are these tools?
Everything is safe when done in moderation and with care, as Dr Era Dutta demonstrated. “Isn’t it true that even in computer hacking, radical shortcuts don’t work? Similarly, staying away from extreme fads, conducting thorough research, knowing your own body and mind, and, most importantly, enlisting the assistance of a field expert when necessary are all essential components of biohacking properly.”
“Some kind of biohacking can be harmless,” Vijeta argues. “Sporting wearables, for example, or adopting lifestyle changes may be safe if done under the supervision of a scientific professional. Some biohacking techniques, such as grinder, are potentially harmful or illegal,” she adds.
What role does biohacking play in Human Performance Enhancement?
Biohacking, according to Vijeta, is supposed to assist you to achieve permanent, good change if utilised carefully and under professional guidance. “Physical, behavioural, or emotional improvements, such as lowering weight or reducing depressive symptoms, may reduce your chance of acquiring an illness to which you are genetically predisposed. Blood pressure and gut microbes are two examples of improved biological processes,” she explains.
“The whole idea of the human race is to be better, live longer, healthier and happier,” explains Dr Era adding that although biohacking hasn’t undergone concrete trials, it is meant to be the path.
However, according to statements made by its most trusted user, Jack Dorsey it can help with:
1 Alleviating or reducing symptoms of mental health issues like depressive symptoms, and anxiety features (this can be in conjunction with treatment)
2 Alleviating or reducing chronic health issues like diabetes, arthritis, chronic pain, chronic fatigue, blood pressure, migraine etc.
3 Obesity and weight loss
4 Helping in ace concentration, creativity and peak productivity
5 Reducing gut-related issues
Are biohacking promises such as longevity and slow ageing true or simply a fad?
Shreya says that the human brain is so powerful. “So, if you keep pushing yourself, you can accomplish your goals. I told myself in 2014 that I would establish a morning routine that included getting up, getting ready, and then just leaving my room. Since then, I haven’t missed it “she explains. “It all relies on your mindset and beliefs. So all you have to do now is educate your mind and force yourself to do it.”
How can biohacking be incorporated into daily life, and who should abstain from it?
With technologies like smartwatches, continuous glucose monitoring, health tracking devices, easy access to sophisticated testing, and so on, biohacking is simple for anyone to get into, remarks Supriya. She further continues: “Someone working, for example, may utilise biohacking to figure out when they have the greatest energy and when they have the least energy during the day. We can determine how much sleep we require to be the most creative and productive.”
Supriya further advocates that people who have high anxiety should not get into biohacking. “This is because if you’re tracking a biomarker and it’s out of range, you’ll look up the reasons online and find that there’s a potential you’re suffering from a deadly condition. This can frighten a lot of people, leading to them deteriorating their health as a result of their concern.”
Can biohacking be dangerous if you lack scientific training?
Supriya further points out that individuals who don’t understand, health, nutrition, neuroscience, and brain function should not try biohacking. “We are experimenting with our bodies and without the correct supervision or understanding, it may be harmful.”
Dr Parthvi believes that even silicon valley scientists and common biohackers are ignorant of the advantages and disadvantages. “It would be prudent to wait and see where this goes before attempting various biohacking tactics,” she advises.
Takeaway
Biohacking is typically safe as long as you don’t go too far and follow your doctor’s or specialist’s guidelines. However, be cautious in general. Experimenting on oneself without taking all of the necessary safeguards might lead to undesirable consequences.
A Collection of Some of Our Best Thread Links and Resources
Here’s a list of some shortcuts to our favorite TheBioHacker forum threads:
A description on how to navigate the forum as well as what to expect- and what’s expected from you:
READ THIS BEFORE YOU POST!!!!! Maximize Your Success Here.
A great link database for setting up your journal and seeing other members’ progress:
MUST READ Sticky Threads – Progress Forum
Setting the right emotional backdrop for obtaining maximum results from male enhancement training:
The training mindset
This is important if you’re considering male enhancement training but suffer from anxiety or depression:
Please Read First
A list of contributing experts to TheBioHacker:
MEET THE EXPERTS
A database on links and resources for contending with the various causes of erectile dysfunction:
MUST READ Sticky Threads – Erectile Dysfunction Forum
A detailed account of a medical doctor’s experience with dealing with “hard flaccid”:
A Doctor with Hard Flaccid – Updates and Advice
An excellent instructional for non-medical measures for contending with pelvic floor problems and poor Erection Quality (EQ):
The HANS Protocol
Men Prone To Worry and Anxiety May Develop Heart Disease and Diabetes Risk Factors at Younger Ages
Middle-aged men who are anxious and worry more may be at greater biological risk for developing heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, also called cardiometabolic disease, as they get older, according to new research published today in the Journal of the American Heart Association, an open access journal of the American Heart Association.
This article is a repost which originally appeared on SciTechDaily
The American Heart Association - January 24, 2022
Edited for content and readability - Images sourced from Pexels
Source: DOI: 10.1161/JAHA.121.022006Our Takeaways:
- Heart disease and Type 2 diabetes developed earlier in life among those who reported more feelings of worry or being overwhelmed.
- The study suggests that men prone to worry and anxiety may need to pay extra attention to cardiometabolic disease risk factors, such as maintaining a healthy weight and taking blood pressure or cholesterol medicines, if needed.
- The findings also suggest that treating anxiety disorders may lower cardiometabolic disease risk.
“While the participants were primarily white men, our findings indicate higher levels of anxiousness or worry among men are linked to biological processes that may give rise to heart disease and metabolic conditions, and these associations may be present much earlier in life than is commonly appreciated – potentially during childhood or young adulthood,” said Lewina Lee, Ph.D., lead author of the study, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine, and an investigator and clinical psychologist at the National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, both in Boston.
To track the relationship between anxiety and cardiometabolic disease risk factors over time, the investigators analyzed data on participants in the Normative Aging Study, which is a longitudinal study of aging processes in men, founded at the U.S. Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in Boston in 1961. The study includes both veterans and non-veterans. This analysis included 1,561 men (97% white), who were an average age of 53 years in 1975. The men completed baseline assessments of neuroticism and worry and did not have cardiovascular disease or cancer at that time. A personality inventory assessed neuroticism on a scale of 0–9. In addition, a worry assessment tool asked how often they worried about each of 20 items, with 0 meaning never and 4 meaning all the time.
“Neuroticism is a personality trait characterized by a tendency to interpret situations as threatening, stressful and/or overwhelming. Individuals with high levels of neuroticism are prone to experience negative emotions – such as fear, anxiety, sadness and anger – more intensely and more frequently,” said Lee. “Worry refers to our attempts at problem-solving around an issue whose future outcome is uncertain and potentially positive or negative. Worry can be adaptive, for example, when it leads us to constructive solutions. However, worry can also be unhealthy, especially when it becomes uncontrollable and interferes with our day-to-day functioning.”
After their baseline assessment, the men had physical exams and blood tests every 3-5 years until they either died or dropped out of the study. The research team used follow-up data through 2015. During follow-up visits, seven cardiometabolic risk factors were measured: systolic (top number) blood pressure; diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure; total cholesterol; triglycerides; obesity (assessed by body mass index); fasting blood sugar levels; and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), a marker of inflammation.
A risk factor for cardiometabolic disease was considered in the high-risk range if the test results for the risk factor was higher than the cut-point established by national guidelines, or if the participant was taking any medicines to manage that risk factor (such as cholesterol-lowering medications). Cut points for ESR as a risk factor are not standardized, so the participant was ranked as high-risk if they were in the top 25% of those tested. Each participant was assigned a risk factor count score, one point for each of the seven risk factors classified as high-risk. The men were then stratified based on whether they did or did not develop six or more high-risk factors during the follow-up period.
“Having six or more high-risk cardiometabolic markers suggests that an individual is very likely to develop or has already developed cardiometabolic disease,” said Lee.
The researchers found:
- Between ages 33 to 65, the average number of cardiometabolic high-risk factors increased by about one per decade, averaging 3.8 risk-factors by age 65, followed by a slower increase per decade after age 65.
- At all ages, participants with higher levels of neuroticism had a greater number of high-risk cardiometabolic factors.
- Higher neuroticism was associated with a 13% higher likelihood of having six or more cardiometabolic disease risk factors, after adjusting for demographic characteristics (such as income and education) and family history of heart disease.
- Higher worry levels were associated with a 10% higher likelihood of having six or more cardiometabolic disease risk factors after adjusting for demographic characteristics.
“We found that cardiometabolic disease risk increased as men aged, from their 30s into their 80s, irrespective of anxiety levels, while men who had higher levels of anxiety and worry consistently had a higher likelihood of developing cardiometabolic disease over time than those with lower levels of anxiety or worry,” Lee said.
The researchers did not have data on whether participants had been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Standard evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders includes psychotherapy or medication, or a combination of the two.
“While we do not know whether treatment of anxiety and worry may lower one’s cardiometabolic risk, anxious and worry-prone individuals should pay greater attention to their cardiometabolic health. For example, by having routine health check-ups and being proactive in managing their cardiometabolic disease risk levels (such as taking medications for high blood pressure and maintaining a healthy weight), they may be able to decrease their likelihood of developing cardiometabolic disease,” said Lee.
It is unclear to what extent the results of this analysis are generalizable to the public since the study participants were all male and nearly all white. In addition, although participants were followed for four decades, they were middle-aged when the study began.
“It would be important for future studies to evaluate if these associations exist among women, people from diverse racial and ethnic groups, and in more socioeconomically varying samples, and to consider how anxiety may relate to the development of cardiometabolic risk in much younger individuals than those in our study,” Lee said.
Psychedelics Show Promise in Treating Mental Illness: Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, and PTSD
One in five U.S. adults will experience a mental illness in their lifetime, according to the National Alliance of Mental Health. But standard treatments can be slow to work and cause side effects.
To find better solutions, a Virginia Tech researcher has joined a renaissance of research on a long-banned class of drugs that could combat several forms of mental illness and, in mice, have achieved long-lasting results from just one dose.
This article is a repost which originally appeared on SciTechDaily - Edited for content and readability - Images sourced from Pexels Study: DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109836
Using a process his lab developed in 2015, Chang Lu, the Fred W. Bull Professor of Chemical Engineering in the College of Engineering, is helping his Virginia Commonwealth University collaborators study the epigenomic effects of psychedelics.
Their findings give insight into how psychedelic substances like psilocybin, mescaline, LSD, and similar drugs may relieve symptoms of addiction, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The drugs appear to work faster and last longer than current medications — all with fewer side effects.
The project hinged on Lu’s genomic analysis. His process allows researchers to use very small samples of tissue, down to hundreds to thousands of cells, and draw meaningful conclusions from them. (https://zegaapparel.com) Older processes require much larger sample sizes, so Lu’s approach enables the studies using just a small quantity of material from a specific region of a mouse brain.
And looking at the effects of psychedelics on brain tissues is especially important.
Researchers can do human clinical trials with the substances, taking blood and urine samples and observing behaviors, Lu said. “But the thing is, the behavioral data will tell you the result, but it doesn’t tell you why it works in a certain way,” he said.
But looking at molecular changes in animal models, such as the brains of mice, allows scientists to peer into what Lu calls the black box of neuroscience to understand the biological processes at work. While the brains of mice are very different from human brains, Lu said there are enough similarities to make valid comparisons between the two.
VCU pharmacologist Javier González-Maeso has made a career of studying psychedelics, which had been banned after recreational use of the drugs was popularized in the 1960s. But in recent years, regulators have begun allowing research on the drugs to proceed.
In work by other researchers, primarily on psilocybin, a substance found in more than 200 species of fungi, González-Maeso said psychedelics have shown promise in alleviating major depression and anxiety disorders. “They induce profound effects in perception,” he said. “But I was interested in how these drugs actually induce behavioral effects in mice.”
To explore the genomic basis of those effects, he teamed up with Lu.
In the joint Virginia Tech – VCU study, González-Maeso’s team used 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine, or DOI, a drug similar to LSD, administering it to mice that had been trained to fear certain triggers. Lu’s lab then analyzed brain samples for changes in the epigenome and the gene expression. They discovered that the epigenomic variations were generally more long-lasting than the changes in gene expression, thus more likely to link with the long-term effects of a psychedelic.
After one dose of DOI, the mice that had reacted to fear triggers no longer responded to them with anxious behaviors. Their brains also showed effects, even after the substance was no longer detectable in the tissues, Lu said. The findings were published in the October issue of Cell Reports.
It’s a hopeful development for those who suffer from mental illness and the people who love them. In fact, it wasn’t just the science that drew Lu to the project.
For him, it’s also personal.
“My older brother has had schizophrenia for the last 30 years, basically. So I’ve always been intrigued by mental health,” Lu said. “And then once I found that our approach can be applied to look at processes like that — that’s why I decided to do research in the field of brain neuroscience.”
González-Maeso said research on psychedelics is still in its early stages, and there’s much work to be done before treatments derived from them could be widely available.