If your sex life isn’t what it used to be, there are a number of prospective culprits to cross-examine. There are many reasons for which people experience a decrease in libido, and fixing your problem will require you to identify which one is at play. Fortunately, most of the underlying causes of diminished sex drives are highly treatable, provided you seek the proper help. If you or your partner have been experiencing a noticeable decrease in libido, it pays to read up on some of the leading causes.

Sex Addiction

Believe it or not, sex addiction is highly conducive to a faulty libido. The more sex a person has, the harder it becomes to fully satisfy their sexual urges. After having every one of their bedroom fantasies fulfilled, many sex addicts are no longer content with run-of-the-mill lovemaking. As such, becoming aroused and achieving orgasm represent sizable undertakings for a fair number of sex addiction sufferers. A similar fate has been known to befall people who suffer from pornography addiction. With the help of a certified sex addiction therapist, people can begin repairing the damage caused by these oft-overlooked addictions.

2. Low Testosterone Levels

Low testosterone levels are notorious for diminishing men’s sex drives. Primarily produced in the testicles, this male hormone helps build muscles, cultivate bone mass and stimulate the production of sperm. Suffice to say, when your testosterone levels begin to wane, your desire to engage in intercourse follows suit. As men age, a gradual decrease in testosterone is to be expected. However, if your testosterone levels suddenly undergo a significant drop, it’s in your best interest to talk to your doctor. Most medical professionals can quickly identify the cause of low testosterone and recommend an effective treatment plan.

3. Persistent Depression

Persistent depression can have a variety of undesirable effects on a person’s life. In addition to creating feelings of worthlessness and despair, depression can reduce the sufferer’s sex drive. Many depression sufferers no longer derive enjoyment from activities that once brought them pleasure, and sex is no exception. Additionally, clinical depression can sap a person’s energy, leaving them unable to bring their A-game to the bedroom.

Antidepressants have also been known to cause libido issues. Many people who take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or “SSRIs,” experience difficulty becoming aroused and maintaining arousal. In some cases, these issues can be solved with an adjusted dose or by switching to a new medication. If an SSRI has caused you any of the aforementioned problems, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking action.

Dealing with a diminished sex drive can stir up a well of emotions, few of them good. Frustration, self-doubt and depression are among the common feelings experienced by people with decreased libidos. However, before you can overcome this problem, you’ll need to determine its root cause. If you’re able to identify with any of the above-mentioned issues, don’t hesitate to seek the appropriate treatment. A single doctor visit may hold the key to getting your sex life back on track.