Stress vs. Anxiety… and How They Can Impact Your Sexual Health

By Ella Roe 

How are you supposed to know if you're stressed or anxious? What’s the difference, anyway? Stress and anxiety are often used interchangeably, even though they’re actually different emotional experiences. Understanding the difference is important—especially since anxiety can impact your sexual health. So, let’s talk about it! 

Stress 

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), stress is an emotional response to an external trigger. These stressors can be short-term (like running late or arguing with a friend) or long-term (like managing a chronic illness). Stress can cause physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, and trouble sleeping. It can also affect your mood—people experiencing stress may feel tired, irritable, or angry. 

Anxiety

Anxiety, on the other hand, involves ongoing worry that sticks around even when there’s no immediate stressor. If you’re regularly anxious about things that might happen, it could be anxiety. Many people experience anxiety related to relationships, politics, the weather, separation from loved ones, and more. 

The physical symptoms of anxiety often mirror those of stress—but with anxiety, they tend to last longer and be more persistent. There are different types of anxiety disorders, like generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder. If you think anxiety might be part of what you’re experiencing, connecting with a mental health professional can help you explore it and find ways to cope. 

What About Sexual Health? 

Anxiety can affect both emotional and physical aspects of your sexual health. When someone is feeling anxious, they might experience a lower sex drive or find it hard to relax and enjoy intimacy. 

 Physically, anxiety can cause symptoms like vaginal dryness or trouble maintaining an erection. These experiences are common and valid—and they can interfere with how we feel during sex. If stress or anxiety is impacting your sexual experiences, it can help to talk to your partner (if you're comfortable doing so!) and to reach out to a mental health professional for support. 

Takeaway 

Stress and anxiety can have big impacts on your overall health—including your sexual wellbeing. Taking care of yourself is important, and that includes mental, emotional, and sexual health. Here are a few tips to help reduce stress and anxiety in everyday life: 

Get enough sleep – Sleep is essential for both stress regulation and overall health. 

Eat balanced meals – Fueling your body well helps your brain function better, too. 

Move your body – Whether that’s a mountain hike or a walk around the block, movement supports your mood and health. 

Try mindfulness or meditation – Even a few minutes a day can help give your mind a break. YouTube has tons of free guided options! 

If you feel like stress or anxiety is affecting your life or sexual health and what you're doing isn’t helping, don’t hesitate to connect with a mental healthcare provider for additional support. 

Read about finding the right therapist here 

Oh Hi Collective- Offers therapy and sex therapy while working with you based on your insurance and unique financial situation.  

Bozeman Help Center – A 24/7 crisis and support line available to anyone in need. They provide free, confidential crisis counseling, emotional support, and referrals to additional services. If you need immediate help, call (406) 586-3333.