Sex and Sexuality

Sex therapy

Sex is a form of intimacy that is a central component of adult interaction. It helps solidify relationships and can enhance and satisfy our existence as adults. It is equally important that we establish a healthy attitude to this form of intimacy so that it becomes a gratifying experience that helps bond you and your partner without the distortions, extremities and addictions that can alienate a relationship.

It is not uncommon for physical intimacy to become less rewarding as a relationship develops over time; this can advance to feelings of insecurity and even sometimes conflict leading to a detrimental effect on the quality and rapport that weakens your interpersonal relationships. If sexual pleasure diminishes, becomes less frequent or challenging then it’s time to consider other options.

Common sexual problems:

• Incompatible libidos
• Premature or delayed ejaculation
• Lack of discussion
• Sexual monotony
• Obsessive sexual behaviour

• Embarrassment or anxiety
• Orgasmic dysfunction
• Diminished desire
• Precedent sexual trauma
• Gender and sexual orientation

Sexual contentment enhances, love, desire, bonding, satisfaction, enthusiasm and numerous rewarding encounters. Although sexual difficulties are quite frequent for couples at some point in their relationship, it is important to be able to safely discuss the general health of your sexual issues with your partner. If either of you become too tense, sensitive or awkward about working through these issues together, then perhaps it’s time to discuss your concerns with a therapist.

Sexuality

Concerns about sexuality can often be confusing and stressful, particularly if you feel you don’t have the support of those who have been traditionally close to you. A person who is beginning to deal with and accept their own sexuality can feel alarmed and confused from all its implications. Friends and family may resist the notion that their friend, sons or daughters are homosexual or lesbian realisations.

People who have or are considering recognising themselves as homosexual or lesbian, asexual, transgender or bisexual, may also find this experience challenging from many different perspectives. Issues involving:

• Declaring your sexuality
• Homophobia (whose problem is it)
• Dealing with people who don’t like your sexuality
• Stress surrounding your sexuality

Sexuality, as well as the sexual act creates disharmony. These additional stresses impede our enjoyment in life; it is a form of gratification that is more important than we care to admit. Aside from the obvious pleasure they provide, it helps reduce stress, increases our self esteem and keeps self doubt and frustration at bay.

If you are having difficulty in these areas and there is a reluctance to discuss this level of intimacy with your partner, friend or family, then it may be time to seek assistance through a trained professional to thoroughly recognise and to establish new ways that these issues can be addressed in a confidential environment, so that you feel better within yourself and to improve the quality of your relationships.