Lack of intimacy in a relationship impacts our physical and mental health. Can this lack of intimacy lead to anger, irritability, and stress? Let's find out from an expert.
Just as love, trust, belonging, and respect are essential in a relationship; intimacy plays an equally important role. Intimacy undoubtedly strengthens any couple's relationship. A good intimate life is crucial for a happy married life. It not only enhances the bond between the couple, but also impacts your mood and physical health. While a good intimate life can reduce stress, a lack of intimacy in a relationship can harm your mental health, even making you feel irritable, angry, and sad. Let's find out from a health expert why and how a lack of intimacy in a relationship can make you irritable and spoil your mood. Dr. Pragya Rashmi, Consultant Psychologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, provides information on this.
Can lack of intimacy in a relationship spoil your mood?
Dr. Pragya says that a lack of intimacy in a relationship can impact your mood and mental health. There may be several reasons behind this, which need to be understood in detail.
Stress may increase
- Lack of intimacy in a relationship can lead to mood swings and irritability.
- Oxytocin and dopamine are two neurochemicals that strengthen relationships, reduce stress, and improve emotional health.
- These are released during intimacy. So, when intimacy decreases, their levels in the body decrease, and the stress hormone cortisol increases.
- Due to this, there may be a risk of increased anxiety, emotional sensitivity and irritability over small things in the person.
You may feel lonely
- Dr. Pragya says that when there is less intimacy in a relationship, one may feel lonely and angry even when being with the partner.
- Emotional dysregulation can also set in. This means you're unable to manage your emotions properly, even if you want to, and this can lead to feelings of loneliness.
Depression and irritability may increase
- Lack of physical and emotional intimacy can lead to feelings of sadness. Skin hunger is a condition that occurs when intimacy with a partner is not achieved for a long time.
- This can lead to increased sadness, sometimes resulting in physical fatigue and a lack of interest in doing anything.
PC: Herzindagi
