Psychological factors are responsible for 10%-20% of all cases of ED. It is often a secondary reaction to an underlying physical cause. In some cases, the psychological effects of ED may stem from childhood abuse or sexual trauma. The most common psychological causes of ED include:
Stress
Stress can be job-related, money-related or the result of relationship problems, among other factors.
Anxiety
Once a man experiences ED, he may become overly worried that the problem will happen again. This can lead to "performance anxiety" or a fear of sexual failure and consistently cause ED.
Guilt
A man may feel guilty that he is not satisfying his partner.
Depression
A common cause of ED, depression affects a person physically and psychologically. Depression can cause ED even when a man is completely comfortable in sexual situations. Drugs used to treat depression may also cause ED.
Low self-esteem
This can be due to prior episodes of ED or can be the result of other issues unrelated to sexual performance.
Indifference
This may come as a result of age and a subsequent loss of interest in sex, be the result of medications or stem from problems in a couple’s relationship.
All men at one time or another will experience ED. Only if the problem becomes persistent (occurs more than 50% of the time) should you be concerned and consider seeking medical advice and treatment. For men whose erectile dysfunction is caused by psychological problems, therapy may be needed.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 9/11/2006
