"Every year on Oct. 10, the World Health Organization (WHO) partners with international organizations to bring awareness and support to people living with mental health issues on World Mental Health Day. According to the WHO, 1 in 8 people live with a mental health condition. Together with the World Association of Sexual Health (WAS), they recognize that sexual health and sexual pleasure are a critical component of overall mental health throughout the lifespan."
"They found that sexual dysfunction was prevalent in 31% of men and 41% of women, and these disorders were often linked to distress, depression, and anxiety. Unfortunately, many of these sexual disorders, like erectile dysfunction, low desire, orgasmic disorder (for women and men), and genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD), were found to go underdiagnosed. This was due to many medical professionals lacking proper sexual health training in their residencies. Because their screenings were inconsistent, the researchers estimated that the true percentages are likely to be higher."
The WHO notes that 1 in 8 people live with a mental health condition and recognizes sexual health and pleasure as integral to mental health across the lifespan. A 2024 meta-analysis of over 4,000 studies found sexual dysfunction in 31% of men and 41% of women, with strong links to distress, depression, and anxiety. Many sexual disorders—erectile dysfunction, low desire, orgasmic disorder, and genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder—are underdiagnosed due to inconsistent screening and limited sexual health training in medical residencies, likely underestimating true prevalence. Untreated sexual disorders worsen mental health, while authenticity and communication can enhance sexual and mental health satisfaction; better screening, training, and integration of services can improve overall well-being and life satisfaction.
Read at Psychology Today
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