THE IMPACT OF SEXUAL FULFILLMENT ON OUR MENTAL AND PHYSICAL WELL BEING

For the patient, psychotherapy is the treatment of emotional or behavioral problems designed to encourage communication of conflicts and insight into their problems; the goal being relief of symptoms and changes in behavior leading to improved functioning.

Our expression, experience, and meaning of sexuality and intimacy are dynamic and fluctuate throughout the lifespan, changing over time as we age. At different ages the experience of sexual satisfaction changes. People that are 50 are not looking for the same things in their relationships of intimacy as they did when they were 25. Our sexuality changes as our experiences increase; according to Laumann, Paik, and Rosen, authors of Sexual Dysfunction in the United States: Prevalence and Predictors, satisfaction with sexual life, attitudes about sexuality, and self-rated sexual performance vary by age, gender, and partnership status. Other factors, such as generational effects, religiosity, and health also influence the quality of the individual’s sexual life. Sexual well-being has important implications for health. In an article, ‘Sexual Health: Counseling in Primary Care’ Diane Seibert, (2001) states, sexual intimacy can be a powerful, emotionally “connecting” event that is associated with positive physical benefits. The act of orgasm releases endorphins and dopamine, resulting in a deep sense of relaxation and feeling of well-being. However, sexual satisfaction eludes many people. Sexual dysfunctions are complex, having different meanings for individuals and cultures.

The DSM-IV-TR(4th edition) the diagnostic statistical manual of mental disorders, notes all of the different psychiatric problems listed in the United States; this manual lists all categories of mental disorders and the criteria for diagnosing them, this includes Sexual and Gender Identity disorders. Mental health professionals use this book to help communicate a patient's diagnosis after an evaluation. Our sexual function is an important component and indicator of overall health and well-being; sexual problems or dysfunction may result from, or even cause, physical or mental illness or deterioration in important social relationships.

Barring genetic and physiological causes, most mental conditions stem from abuse or trauma that occurred at some point in the patient life. Many patients bury these conditions as a defense apparatus or coping mechanism. In order to uncover and treat these conditions it is necessary for the trained therapist to begin treatment “where the patient is”. Many times the presenting problem may mask the real problem.

Sexual satisfaction is an important aspect of adult life. Sexual problems can cause individuals to suffer many adverse reactions that affect their sense of well being. Clinicians must ask the right questions in order to guide successful intervention in situations where sexual functioning is not optimal.

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