Psychosocial Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction

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What Is Psychosocial Treatment

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  Psychosocial treatment is often called "talk therapy," according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. This type of counseling may include education, cognitive and/or behavioral modification, and self-awareness and management techniques. Counseling is provided on an individual basis, as well as between couples and in groups. According to the Cleveland Clinic, therapy for erectile dysfunction is effective in up to 70 percent of cases when the patient's partner participates in counseling, and slightly less when the man participates in therapy alone.

Performance Anxiety

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  Most men experience at least an isolated incident of erectile dysfunction at some point in their lives. Sometimes, fear of repeated occurrences interferes with the ability to perform sexually. In turn, the failed sexual attempt diminishes the man's confidence and self-esteem, increasing his anxiety as well as the likelihood of erectile dysfunction occurring in the future. Psychosocial treatment focuses on relieving sexual anxiety, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Stress Management

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  Sexual performance anxiety is not the only psychological cause of impotence. Erectile dysfunction sometimes develops due to the effects of stress. Worries about work, finances and relationships frequently cause erectile dysfunction. Learning techniques for managing stress and more effective problem solving is often necessary to counteract the sexual dysfunction that results from stress.

Relationship Counseling

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  Psychosocial treatment often includes counseling for the couple as well as individual psychotherapy for the patient. Conflict in the relationship, poor communication skills or other relationship issues that cause tension between partners is sometimes responsible for symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Similarly, isolated incidents of erectile dysfunction can lead to fear of repeated incidents, making it imperative that couples practice techniques and communication skills that strengthen intimacy while decreasing the pressure to perform, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Self-Help

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  In addition to regularly scheduled sessions with a therapist, men who are being treated for erectile dysfunction will be guided toward education and practices that will broaden their understanding of the disorder and provide tools for self-help. These between-session assignments might include reading about sexuality, learning relaxation exercises and meditation to reduce the effects of stress, participating in a self-help group, or making lifestyle changes such as exercising or improving diet.

Tips

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  Always consult your physician first, to rule out underlying physical causes of erectile dysfunction. Serious medical conditions sometimes cause erectile dysfunction and can pose significant long-term health consequences if left untreated.