Guys, do you get less horny when more stressed?

Question

Do you get less horny, masturbate, and have less sexual thoughts when you’re stressed out?

My boyfriend (we are long distance) used to talk about sex frequently and used to ask for sexy pics a lot, but lately he hasn’t been. He’s been in lockdown for a long time now, his gym has been closed for months, and he’s been stressed out with work. I asked him about his libido lately and he said it’s been lower due to all of this combined and that he should be back to normal once the lockdown lifts and he can start exercising again and going out more.

We still talk everyday and everything is still going strong between us so no relationship issues. Just genuinely curious.

Is this normal?

Guys, do you experience lower sex drive in times of high stress?

MrOracle · Accepted Answer

Yes.

When I'm under a lot of pressure - like, say, having had only one and a half days off in the last 3 weeks, and stressed out about trying to find parts, and having other contractors come behind me and break/disconnect my stuff because they don't know what it is, etc., that's the kind of thing that definitely lowers my libido. Any significant amount of stress will normally do that.

Also, lack of exercise, eating poorly, being on anti-depression meds (and some other meds too) are all common reasons for people to have lower libidos.

As much as men love sex - and for most men, that's a LOT! - we're still human, and outside issues affect our libidos. It sucks, but that's the reality.

TheBootyChest · Accepted Answer

What he is saying is very possible. Especially with the gym not being open. But also sometimes guys can use sex to get over their stress so. So to say it's normal depends on the guy, but I don't think you need to work.

kyila96 · Accepted Answer

I know I’m not a guy, sorry! However I just wanted to add that I’m going through the exact same thing. It’s totally normal! Whilst it may make you feel less desired, I promise you that he still finds you just as sexy, he’s just got a lot going on as of late. If I’m in the mood, I might tell him during the day that I have a sexy picture for him later... that way he’ll be thinking about it all day which will in turn make him horny. It’s a nice distraction from the stress. Please don’t worry about it, the fact he’s still making so much time for you says all you need to know!

God_of_Thunder · Answer

Stress lowers testosterone levels, and testosterone is required for libido. So, yeah; when I'm under a lot of stress, or just having a generally crappy day, then mine will go down.

TheCunningLinguist · Answer

It either lowers it dramatically or raises it substantially. No, in between and I can't say as why it goes both ways.

LiamSawyer · Answer

Most likely.

snackthatsmilesback · Answer

Always. One reason I try not to stress too much.

exitseven · Answer

Yes, absolutely.

Browneye57 · Answer

I quit reading at 'long distance'. Ya got nuthin' toots.

FýrdracaDócincel · Answer

Absolutely. The cons of being a fucking control freak.

RileyKing · Answer

totally, being stressed has real consequences on ur brain and can even lower hormone levels. pretty sure it can even disrupt girls menstral cycles if theyr stressed enougj

Wise4myage · Answer

Yes, and I bet everyone does. Stress is a great mood killer.

Steve1071 · Answer

Hell yes.

andy530 · Answer

Actually I’m the opposite. I get more honey when I’m stressed

Satish2607 · Answer

It's actually the reverse for me. It reduces my stress so I get turned on more.

EaterPeter · Answer

How do you know? Do you have magical sphere? That sounds true. Sex is not fun when stress is high. Can't perform well if someone is keep giving stress and no rest as well.