5 Ways to Tackle Erectile Dysfunction Stigma
Erectile Dysfunction, or ED, is a life-changing event for most of us. Erectile dysfunction anxiety can be terrifying to deal with, and knowing where to begin is often the hardest step. Thankfully, there are tons of ways to tackle the stigma that comes with this condition, and knowing how to deal with ED mentally and physically can make managing it far easier than you might expect.
The ED Stigma
Erectile dysfunction, and sexual health disorders in general, are far more common than they might appear. Due to how closed off we are to the idea of openly discussing them, people diagnosed with ED can often feel like there is a stigma attached to the condition. There are many ways of tackling this perceived stigma and erectile dysfunction anxiety, and even more ways to move past it and have a fulfilling, happy life.
#1 – Awareness
Learning you’ve got erectile dysfunction can be an isolating discovery. Before it happens to you, it can feel like a condition that happens to others, even though up to a third of all men deal with it. Simply coming to terms with the fact that you’re not alone in this struggle can be a relief, and opens up many doors that can help you tackle this stigma and erectile dysfunction anxiety. This can include joining online communities, such as blogs and popular online communities, like Reddit. Hop in and join the discussion!
#2 – Support Systems
Even if ED is something that happens to you, it doesn’t mean you have to go at it alone. It’s often been observed that men diagnosed with erectile dysfunction tend to distance themselves from their loved ones, whether out of shame or a feeling of inadequacy. Building a stable support system can be incredibly helpful as a source of emotional support and advice when dealing with erectile dysfunction anxiety. Dealing with ED mentally is just as important as the physical aspects involved.
#3 – Professional Help
Everyone’s built differently, and while some people do have great support systems and the mental fortitude required to power through ED, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, not everyone gets lucky. Seeking out and engaging with professional help can be a necessary step for many men who might not know how to process all the changes that come with ED.
Counselors can help you deal with erectile dysfunction anxiety and frustration. They can chart out a plan of action that people can use as a framework when they’re unsure about what to do. On the physical side of things, doctors can make sure there isn’t an underlying condition causing or making your ED worse. This can include conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
#4 – Understanding and Compassion
Dealing with ED can have a grievous mental impact. It can cause men to turn against themselves inwardly, out of feelings of inadequacy and guilt. These feelings can in turn spiral into conditions like depression, creating a vicious cycle that can be tough to escape from without professional help. It’s important to remember that what you’re feeling is something caused by factors entirely out of your control, and you are not to be blamed.
Beat the erectile dysfunction anxiety by being kinder to yourself and those around you. Practically speaking, there are two dimensions to this:
- Psychological: Heading off frustration and overthinking by meditating and coming to terms with your condition. Being at rest mentally is crucial for dealing with ED.
- Physical: Knowing your limits when it comes to sexual and physical activity (in patients with additional conditions like diabetes) is necessary. Pushing your body beyond what it can accomplish and setting unrealistic expectations can be harmful, both physically and mentally. Additionally, regular exercise and a healthy diet that incorporates multiple vitamins can help bolster your confidence and overall physical health.
#5 – Confidence!
You’re not the first person to get ED, and you certainly won’t be the last. With how common the condition is, always remember that others are going through what you’re facing, and you’re not alone in the fight. As simple as it might sound, nothing beats stigma more than a head held high, and with a support system and physical routine in place, all you need to go forward and take life by the reins is a positive outlook. Demolish that erectile dysfunction anxiety and insecurity with confidence.
Moving Forward
There are many, many ways to deal with ED mentally, and no matter how daunting of a challenge it might seem, there is always a way to move forward. With advances in technology, there are also tons of ways you can revive your sex life, such as investing in a penis sleeve or supplements from RX Sleeve, a premium provider of men’s wellness products.