How Trauma Affects Your Sexual Health
It has been decades since American psychologist Abraham Maslow presented his iconic theory about human needs and motivation in the form of a pyramid model in 1943. Titled Hierarchy of Needs, he placed reproduction as a basic physiological need at the bottom of the pyramid, indicating that it was an essential human need which individuals must satisfy at a primal level. He also positioned intimacy as an important component in the middle tier of the pyramid, concerned with needs related to love and belonging. Even though these aspects of the model can now be debated upon with the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ sexualities into our mainstream discourses, sexual needs and desires continue to be a prominent facet of human existence for a majority of the population (with exceptions of course). And since all sexual behaviour has its origin in the brain, mental health is undoubtedly paramount in determining our sexual attraction and drive.
What is Trauma?
Trauma can be defined as an emotional response to any devastating or harrowing event or situation. The American Psychological Association (APA) defines it as “an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, rape, or natural disaster.” Any event that is either emotionally or physically harmful or threatening can bring upon the onset of trauma. Since all individuals are unique, they respond to traumatic events differently, with changes in their attitude, behaviour, functioning, and world view. Some go into shock, while others go into denial. Long-lasting reactions include low concentration, mood swings and other unpredictable behavior, flashbacks, poor maintenance of or strained relationships, and even physical symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, headaches, or nausea.
If trauma is not immediately addressed and treated it can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), an adjustment disorder following the traumatic event. This disorder is characterized by a belief that life and safety are at risk, accompanied by feelings of fear or helplessness. While researchers have established that majority of people who undergo trauma do not develop PTSD, there is no definitive answer for as to why this is so. PTSD is not a condition that corrects itself if ignored. Untreated PTSD can cause permanent brain damage as a result of the individual incessantly living on the edge, in a hyper-aroused state. It has been observed though that people with PTSD tend to have an already existing mental health issue such as anxiety or depression.
Importance of Sexual Intercourse
The many health benefits of sexual intercourse include stress reduction, lower blood pressure, and better immunity. It also helps reduce feelings of anxiety and depression as it triggers the release of mood-boosting chemicals like the “happy hormones” dopamine and oxytocin, along with endorphins, which are responsible for stress and pain management. And when it comes to our emotional and mental health, when done right sexual intercourse facilitates pleasure and an overall sense of well-being in your love relationship as it strengthens the intimacy between you and your partner/partners. It serves as a source of joy and can uplift your self-image.
How Does Trauma Affect the Brain and Sexual Behavior
As humans, we are likely to experience at least one or more traumatic incidents at some point in our lives. These events have the potential to hugely compromise our sexual health and sex life. Sexual behavior is regulated by both subcortical structures, such as the hypothalamus, brainstem, and spinal cord, and several cortical brain areas, all of which perform like a finely tuned orchestra during this complex and versatile act. Trauma has shown to impact the functioning of the hypothalamus – the deep-seated, limbic control room of the brain – that coordinates between the nerves and endocrine systems by controlling the hormones released by the pituitary gland. Hypothalamus plays an important role during sexual intercourse as it regulates our moods and sex drive. Untreated trauma can shrink the hypothalamus and diminish its functioning.
Irrespective of the type of trauma you have undergone, you may consciously or unconsciously experience lack of sexual desire or inability to get sexually aroused. Attaining sexual satisfaction can also be challenging. Trauma can also bring upon a disconnect between you and your body, which may keep you from feeling at home in it. This disassociation prevents you from being present in the moment with your partner/partners during the act. Freezing up while getting intimate is also a common symptom of trauma, and so is being in a constant in a state of hypervigilance and feeling unsafe.
Often people associate sexual acts with only their bodies, as a purely physical concept even though much of our sex life occurs in our brains regardless of gender or sexual orientation. But sexual health is more wholesome and is a combination of physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being in relation to one's sexuality.
Maintaining a positive attitude towards sex is key while healing from trauma and PTSD. Talking about anything related to sex can feel daunting, shameful, or taboo but honestly discussing about it is often liberating and leads to a fulfilling and happy life. In order to be in-touch with our inner selves and be truly empowered, we need to be to express our sexual self without any apology or hesitation.
If you or someone close to you has experienced a traumatic event, visiting a mental health professional is a must. Your therapist will aid you in overcoming your trauma through various exercises and methods aimed at coping and dealing with it while ensuring that sexual health is not overlooked. This can help your relationship be one that feels safe, connected and fulfilling as you care for yourself and your partner.
We have a number of trauma therapists at Panorama Wellness Group that are available to help you if this is something you are currently facing. I am one of those who would be honoured to walk alongside you whether it is you that is healing from a traumatic experience or you are supporting someone you love. Reach out today.
