Worldwide Occurrence of ED and associated psychological troubles

According to the most recent clinical studies, more than 10% of the worldwide population of men aged 40-70 suffer from certain forms of ED, including both severe and moderate disorders of the sexual function. Although the occurrence of this disease is significantly lower in younger men (the illness is very age-dependent to the extent of the clear linear dependency between the age of patients and the risk of developing ED), it is still diagnosed in more than 10% of men aged 18-40 years.

In addition to the obvious outcomes of ED, such as the inability to perform intercourse and loss of libido, the said condition contributes to the development of various psychological problems in men, ranging from neurosis to serious depressive disorders and severe psychosomatic conditions. In compliance with the results of the numerous clinical studies, there is a proven correlation between the development of depression and loss of sexual function.

Moreover, the said correlation works both ways: depressed patients tend to demonstrate decreased levels of sexual activity whereas patients suffering from ED tend to develop diverse psychological conditions with intense negative influence on their health status.

Dealing with ED: clinical experience

However, even severe ED should not be regarded as the worst-case scenario. Patients faced with ED should understand the following:

  • Firstly, most patients suffering from ED, including even severe cases, provide a great response to the currently adopted certified pharmaceutical treatment.
  • Secondly, a great number of patients suffer from ED caused by psychological troubles rather than physiological conditions. Effective psychotherapy may significantly improve the condition of such men even with no involvement of prolonged pharmaceutical treatment.
  • Thirdly, positive approach and optimistic state of mind improve both the results of therapy aimed at direct treatment of ED and the general health status of the patient. Patients trapped in the loop of depressive disorders require additional treatment whereas those who adopt life-affirming views on the problem tend to demonstrate better results in the context of general quality of life.