Anxiety, Depression & Men’s Sexual Health

Anxiety, Depression & Men’s Sexual Health

Depression and/or anxiety disorders in men is much more common than the statistics suggest.

Although only 5% of adult men annually report clinical depression in the Western world, approximately 20% admit to experiencing some form of anxiety disorder each year.

These numbers are rising, and alarmingly so. 

In recent polling, the percentage of U.S. adults who report having been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lifetime reached 29% in 2023, nearly 10 percentage points higher than in 2015.

In fact, all of these datapoints are likely to be vastly underreported due to social stigma associated with these disorders.

Weakness

Without getting too deep into the clinical definitions and biopsychology of these conditions, we can confidently say that both depression and anxiety are weaknesses.

And EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US have moments of weakness.  

Some moments of weakness can last minutes. 
Some can last days and weeks.  

No one is immune.

Acknowledging this is CRITICAL.

So….

What’s eating at you?

What’s your problem?  

WHAT IS YOUR WEAKNESS?

These are rhetorical questions because, here’s the thing: 

It doesn’t really matter.

It doesn’t matter if your environment is toxic (bad partner, crap boss, shitty job, no friends),

And it doesn’t matter if you are not motivated to do what you NEED to do (exercise, eating well, sleeping well, etc)…,

And it doesn’t matter if you are blowing it with your lifestyle (Smoking, drinking, being a lazy fuck). 

What matters is: you are feeling weak now.  

And THAT is what needs to change.

Take it Easy

It’s OK if you are feeling down and struggling.

EVERYONE SUFFERS.

The pain you experience, however, is OPTIONAL.

So when I see a patient coming in with anxiety, or stress, or extreme sadness, the first thing I do is to put my hands up and tell them: “Take it Easy!”

And I often repeat it “….Take it Easy….”.

I know ‘taking it easy’ is sometimes easier said than done, but this is the simplest advice you can receive when it’s clear you are mentally exhausting yourself.

You need to REST and TAKE IT EASY.

I’m not telling you to lay down and quit.

I’m telling you to STOP, BREATHE, REST and TAKE IT EASY…so you can come back stronger and carry on.

Sex Starts in the Brain

Men take a lot of shit – we are expected to have more agency and control than women. 

The former are usually seen as victimizer while the latter is often seen as a victim.

Nowadays, we hear more about the downsides of the ‘Patriarchy’ than we do the ills of ‘Feminism’.  

When it comes to our health, unfortunately, we aren’t very good at admitting, or working to repair, what is ailing us.

It’s different for everyone as to the what, and the why; but generally speaking, men struggle to take charge and make changes to both their physical and mental health (as compared to women)  

The effect of mental health issues on a man’s sexual wellness is significant.

And in like manner, a man’s sexual wellness can directly affect his mental health.

It’s a 2-way street filled with potholes, pedestrians and peril.

Here are 5 ways your depression or anxiety can impact your sexual wellness:

1. **Erectile Dysfunction (ED):** Men with depression or anxiety are at a higher risk of experiencing erectile dysfunction. The psychological stress associated with these conditions can interfere with the brain’s ability to send the necessary signals to trigger an erection.  Sex ALWAYS starts in the brain.

2. **Reduced Libido:** Both depression and anxiety can lead to a decrease in sexual desire or libido. The emotional and physical fatigue associated with these mental health conditions often dampens sexual interest and enthusiasm.

3. **Premature Ejaculation (PE):** Anxiety, particularly performance anxiety, can contribute to premature ejaculation. The pressure to perform well can create a cycle of anxiety and rapid ejaculation.

4. **Difficulty Achieving Orgasm:** Depression and certain antidepressant medications can make it challenging to reach orgasm, contributing to sexual dissatisfaction.

5. **Relationship Strain:** Mental health issues can strain intimate relationships, leading to decreased emotional and physical intimacy. This strain can further exacerbate sexual health problems.

Addressing the Connection

Given the strong link between mental health and sexual wellness, it is crucial to address both aspects in treatment. 

Men experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety should consider seeking professional help, be it a therapist, sexologist, naturopath, or allopath.  

Addressing these mental health issues can lead to improvements in sexual health and overall well-being.

At FocusWave Clinic, we are committed to providing comprehensive care that addresses both mental and sexual health. Our approach includes a combination of tailored treatment plans, where we can integrate mental health support, natural sexual health treatments, and a holistic solution to overall improve well-being and quality of life.  

If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or sexual health issues, we encourage you to book a consultation with us. 

Taking the first step towards treatment can significantly improve your mental and sexual wellness.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.focuswaveclinic.com or call us at 888-558-9283.

Prioritize your health and well-being this Men’s Health Awareness Month.

Warm regards,

Drew Klein, Certified Sexologist & Clinic Director

FocusWave Clinic

Book a FREE DISCOVERY CALL with me

www.focuswaveclinic.com 

888-558-9283

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Cure ED with Simple Tricks? Sorry…

Lady is curious about something

If you are still dealing with Sexual Dysfunction, you’ve probably been surfing Youtube to find videos titled ‘EASY and permanent ED cure! or ‘How to fix my Peyronie’s Disease in 8 minutes!’ or ‘Eliminate pelvic pain & bladder incontinence forever!’.

Hate to be the bearer of bad news, but – THERE EXISTS NO SIMPLE TRICK TO CURE ED.
There are NO QUICK and PERMANENT FIXES
.

There’s a lot of good information out there, and you should be judicious in searching it out.  

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent condition that affects a significant portion of the male population worldwide. Characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance, ED can have profound psychological and relational impacts. Despite the widespread desire for a quick fix, the complexities underlying erectile dysfunction make such solutions unrealistic and potentially harmful. This essay will explore the multifaceted nature of ED, the reasons why quick fixes are ineffective, and the importance of a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Again – there exists no SIMPLE TRICK TO CURE ED.
It’s a multi-variate analysis which requires work and introspection.

### Understanding Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is not a disease in itself but a symptom of various underlying conditions. These can be broadly categorized into physical, psychological, and lifestyle-related factors.

**Physical Causes:**
1. **Cardiovascular Diseases:** Conditions such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and high cholesterol can impair blood flow to the penis, making erections difficult to achieve.
2. **Diabetes:** Diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves that are crucial for erectile function.
3. **Hormonal Imbalances:** Low levels of testosterone or other hormonal imbalances can contribute to ED.
4. **Neurological Disorders:** Diseases like Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries can interfere with the nerve signals required for an erection.
5. **Medications:** Certain drugs, including those for depression, anxiety, and hypertension, can have side effects that lead to ED.

**Psychological Causes:**
1. **Stress and Anxiety:** Mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly affect sexual performance.
2. **Relationship Problems:** Interpersonal conflicts and poor communication with a partner can contribute to ED.
3. **Performance Anxiety:** Worrying about sexual performance can itself cause or exacerbate erectile difficulties.

**Lifestyle Factors:**
1. **Smoking:** Tobacco use can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the penis.
2. **Alcohol and Substance Abuse:** Excessive alcohol consumption and the use of certain recreational drugs can lead to ED.
3. **Obesity and Lack of Exercise:** Poor physical health can impair sexual function.

Why Quick Fixes Are Ineffective

The desire for a quick fix to cure ED is understandable, given its impact on quality of life. However, such solutions are generally ineffective and can even be dangerous due to the following reasons:

**Symptomatic Relief vs. Root Cause:**
Most quick fixes, such as over-the-counter supplements and unverified treatments, focus on symptomatic relief rather than addressing the underlying causes of ED. These methods might offer temporary improvement but fail to provide a long-term solution. For instance, a pill that increases blood flow to the penis may help achieve an erection but won’t address underlying issues like cardiovascular disease or diabetes that require medical attention and lifestyle changes.

**Potential for Harm:**
Many quick-fix solutions are unregulated and can pose significant health risks. Supplements and herbal remedies often contain undisclosed ingredients that can interact with prescription medications or exacerbate existing health conditions. Moreover, the lack of scientific evidence supporting these products raises questions about their efficacy and safety.

**Psychological Impact:**
Relying on quick fixes can also have detrimental psychological effects. Temporary solutions can lead to dependency, increased anxiety, and frustration when they fail to work consistently to cure ED. This can create a vicious cycle, where the stress and disappointment associated with unreliable treatments further exacerbate ED.

**Ignoring Comprehensive Health:**
Quick fixes tend to ignore the broader context of an individual’s health. Erectile dysfunction is often a sign of other serious health issues that require comprehensive management. Focusing solely on symptom relief can delay the diagnosis and treatment of conditions like heart disease or diabetes, potentially leading to more severe health outcomes and ultimately, not giving you the tools to cure ED.

### Comprehensive Approach to Treatment

Effective management of erectile dysfunction requires a comprehensive, individualized approach that addresses the root causes and involves medical, psychological, and lifestyle interventions.

**Medical Treatment:**
1. **Medications:** PDE5 inhibitors such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra) are commonly prescribed to enhance erectile function. These drugs improve blood flow to the penis but need to be used under medical supervision, especially in patients with underlying health conditions. Again – these drugs are not the way to cure ED – these are symptom fixers and don’t address the root cause.
2. **Hormone Therapy:** For men with hormonal imbalances, testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended.
3. **Devices:** Vacuum erection devices, penile implants, and injections can provide alternatives for those who do not respond to oral medications.
4. **Surgery:** Vascular surgery may be an option in rare cases where there is a specific anatomical cause for ED. There is risk in surgery, of course, and no guarantees even that this will cure ED.

**Psychological Support:**
1. **Counseling and Therapy:** Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy can help address psychological causes of ED, such as performance anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
2. **Couples Therapy:** Engaging in therapy with a partner can improve communication and reduce relational stress contributing to ED.

**Lifestyle Changes:**
1. **Exercise:** Regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health and blood flow, reducing the risk of ED.
2. **Diet:** A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports overall health and can improve erectile function.
3. **Smoking Cessation:** Quitting smoking can enhance vascular health and erectile performance.
4. **Moderating Alcohol Intake:** Reducing alcohol consumption can prevent the negative effects of excessive drinking on sexual function.
5. **Weight Management:** Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other conditions associated with ED.

But treating these conditions is often a process – and there exists no ‘silver bullet’ on how to cure ED.

If you think just popping a blue pill is fixing your ED, you’ve got it backwards.
Popping pills treats the symptom – NOT the root cause.
It will not cure ED.

What treats the root cause of your ED (or PD, or CPPS, or UI/BPH)? 
Focused Shockwave Therapy.

What do shockwaves do at the site? (BIOLOGY & PHYSIOLOGY)

Shockwaves increase the expression of 2 major proteins – eNOS & VEGF – to accelerate wound healing.

eNOS – endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase is primarily responsible for the generation of Nitric Oxide in the vascular endothelium and it plays a critical role in regulating and maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.

VEGF – vascular endothelial growth factor – a small group of signal protein produced by cells that stimulates the formation of blood vessels (angiogenesis).

Don’t listen to us: READ THE MOST RECENT STUDIES!

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9995960/ – Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) for Erectile Dysfunction: Myths and realities
    (Conclusion: Scores improved in patients who underwent the procedure with results maintained after 12 months, highlighting the effectiveness of this treatment.)
  2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc10419780/ – Low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy for Peyronie’s Disease: An Indian experience
    (Conclusion: A significant improvement was observed in pain and plaque size in patients treated by Li-ESWT.)
  3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc10612526/ – Low intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy for Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: Long-term follow-up
    (Conclusion: The treatment significantly improved the Quality of Life of the patients.)
  4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc10960085/ – Extracorporeal shockwave therapy of the perineum for male patients with chronic pelvic pain syndrome: a pilot study
    (Conclusion: ESWT to the perineal region may also provide potential treatments/improvements to erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)
  5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc8470836/ – Low Intensity Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy as a Novel Treatment for Stress Urinary Incontinence: A Randomized-Controlled Clinical Study
    (Conclusion: 8 weeks of LiESWT attenuated Stress Urinary Incontinence symptoms upon physical activity, reduced urine leakage, and ameliorated overactive bladder symptoms, which implied that LiESWT significantly improved the quality of life)

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be, however, a potential indicator or harbinger of vascular issues, particularly those related to blood flow.

In many cases, ED is linked to problems with the blood vessels that supply the penis.

Here’s how vascular issues can contribute to ED:

  1. Blood Flow to the Penis:
    • Erections occur when there is sufficient blood flow to the erectile tissues of the penis. If there are issues with blood vessels, such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), it can impede blood flow and lead to difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
  2. Endothelial Dysfunction:
    • Endothelial cells line the blood vessels, and dysfunction in these cells can contribute to vascular problems. Endothelial dysfunction is associated with atherosclerosis and can impact the ability of blood vessels to dilate properly.
  3. Connection to Cardiovascular Health:
    • The blood vessels in the penis are relatively small, and issues affecting them may reflect broader cardiovascular concerns. ED has been recognized as a potential marker for cardiovascular disease.
  4. Risk Factors:
    • Shared risk factors, such as smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol, contribute to both vascular issues and ED.

ED can serve as a warning sign for underlying vascular problems. Men experiencing persistent or recurrent ED are often advised to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to assess cardiovascular health and identify potential risk factors. Addressing vascular health through lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions may positively impact both ED and overall cardiovascular well-being. If you have concerns about ED or vascular health, consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended.

Erectile dysfunction is a complex condition with multifactorial causes. The appeal of quick fixes is understandable but ultimately misguided. Temporary solutions that do not address the underlying causes can lead to further health complications and psychological distress. A comprehensive approach, tailored to the individual’s specific needs and underlying conditions, offers the best chance for effective and sustainable management of erectile dysfunction. By addressing medical, psychological, and lifestyle factors, men can achieve better overall health and improved sexual function, leading to a higher quality of life.

But one thing is certain: FOCUSED SHOCKWAVE THERAPY is a painless, effective, non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical, side-effect free MARVEL of a treatment. For many men – it’s a natural way to actually cure ED as it attacks the root cause of the condition.

Men’s sexual wellness is a multifaceted aspect of health that encompasses physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. As men age, several factors can contribute to a decline in sexual wellness, impacting their quality of life and overall health. This treatise explores the various dimensions of this decline, examining its causes, effects, and potential interventions.

Physiological Factors

1. Hormonal Changes:

  • Testosterone Decline: Testosterone levels in men peak during late adolescence and early adulthood. After the age of 30-40, these levels gradually decrease by about 1% per year. This decline can lead to reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and decreased energy levels.
  • Andropause: Similar to menopause in women, andropause represents the age-related decline in androgen levels. Symptoms include fatigue, mood swings, and diminished sexual desire.

2. Chronic Health Conditions:

  • Cardiovascular Disease: Poor cardiovascular health can impair blood flow, leading to erectile dysfunction.
  • Diabetes: Diabetes can cause nerve damage and affect blood flow, contributing to sexual dysfunction.
  • Obesity: Excess body weight can lead to hormonal imbalances and reduced sexual function.

Psychological and Emotional Factors

1. Stress and Anxiety:

  • Performance Anxiety: Fear of sexual inadequacy can inhibit performance and reduce sexual satisfaction.
  • Chronic Stress: Long-term stress can lead to hormonal imbalances, affecting libido and sexual performance.

2. Mental Health Disorders:

  • Depression: Depression is closely linked to reduced sexual desire and erectile dysfunction. Medications for depression can also have side effects impacting sexual wellness.
  • Body Image Issues: Negative body image can reduce self-esteem and affect sexual confidence.

Lifestyle Factors

1. Diet and Nutrition:

  • Poor diet can lead to obesity and related health issues that impact sexual function.
  • Nutrient deficiencies can affect hormonal balance and energy levels.

2. Physical Activity:

  • Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health, boosts mood, and enhances sexual performance.
  • Sedentary lifestyle contributes to obesity and reduces sexual desire and function.

3. Substance Use:

  • Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair sexual function and reduce libido.
  • Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels, reducing blood flow and leading to erectile dysfunction.

Societal and Relationship Factors

1. Relationship Dynamics:

  • Communication issues and unresolved conflicts can reduce intimacy and sexual satisfaction.
  • Emotional disconnect and lack of physical affection can impact sexual desire.

2. Societal Expectations:

  • Cultural norms and expectations regarding masculinity and sexual performance can contribute to stress and anxiety.

Interventions and Management

1. Medical Interventions:

  • Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): TRT can help manage symptoms of low testosterone but must be carefully monitored.
  • Medications: Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (e.g., Viagra) can treat erectile dysfunction effectively.

2. Psychological Support:

  • Counseling and Therapy: Addressing mental health issues and relationship counseling can improve sexual wellness.
  • Stress Management Techniques: Mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques can reduce stress and anxiety.

3. Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Healthy Diet and Regular Exercise: Maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity can enhance overall and sexual health.
  • Avoiding Harmful Substances: Reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking improve sexual function.

Conclusion

The decline in men’s sexual wellness is influenced by a combination of physiological, psychological, and lifestyle factors. How to cure ED is a question that’s been asked throughout history – this is not a new condition.  Addressing these issues holistically through medical interventions, psychological support, and lifestyle modifications can significantly improve men’s sexual health and overall quality of life. Awareness and open communication about these issues are crucial for timely intervention and effective management.

Tip 6/30 – Throw the Kitchen Sink At Your Problem

ottawa premiere shockwave therapy clinic men's health ED Peyronie

Tip 6/30 – Throw the Kitchen Sink at your problem

The patients who have the best results with shockwave therapy typically throw the Kitchen Sink at the problem.

At FocusWave Clinic, we always recommend patients be their own best advocate. 

No one cares about your sexual health as much as you should.  

The suggestions from the allopathic medical community usually involve drugs, injections or surgery – and we want you to avoid these at all costs.  

It should be noted that these options are also not 100% guaranteed to work, and the side effects and risks are very real.

And so while shockwave is an amazing modality, we never stop there. 

At FocusWave we use the Kitchen Sink strategy. 

We throw everything at the wall and see what sticks.

Shockwave,

Nutrition,

Fitness,

Supplements,

Sex Therapy,

Functional Medicine,

Treatment Devices.

Who cares what works – let’s try it all.

For Erectile Dysfunction patients, we strongly encourage changes to improve vascular health (nutrition, fitness, sleep, stress, lifestyle) and the abandonment of non-natural prescription drugs.  All of these can and will have deleterious effects on your erectile function.  Adding Nitric Oxide supplementation and vacuum pumps can make a further difference.  

For Peyronie’s Disease – we recommend jelquing, stretching, traction devices and also Nitric Oxide supplementation.  

For Chronic Pelvic Pains or Bladder Incontinence issues, we strongly recommend a visit to a pelvic floor physiotherapist in conjunction with your focused shockwave therapy treatment.

A visit to a naturopathic physician is always recommended for our patients. 
We have access to the very best people to support your problem. 

By following the Kitchen Sink strategy, and in conjunction with our unique FOCUSED shockwave therapy protocol, we have seen even further improvements in our patients.  

In fact, we have seen positive developments in about 50% of the 30% expected non-responders, thus increasing the efficacy from 70% to about 85%.  

Truly amazing.  

I’m so happy (it makes me well up sometimes) when I hear patients and their success stories.

That said, I remain hyper focused and frustrated for the 15% who are still not seeing results. 

I dwell on it and really push them to keep going.

The only thing we can keep doing is to ‘KitchenSink’ it.  

You need to consider every option and take a 360 degree approach to slow the regression, and possibly reverse the conditions leading to the decline of your sexual wellness. 

Let us help you. 

We have access to the very best technology and support to get you on the right track. 

Give Shockwave Therapy a try.  

Book your consultation or FREE Discovery Call here: www.tinyurl.com/focuswave

Call 888-558-WAVE (9283) for more information.

Text 613-878-8164 for a quick chat.

But it all starts with you.
Start the Conversation.

www.focuswaveclinic.com

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