4 Ways Demisexuality Can Intersect With Mental Health

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To shed light on the complex intersection of demisexuality and mental health, we’ve gathered insights from a psychologist and a CEO. From understanding the emotional connection in demisexuality to promoting awareness, acceptance, and support, here are the top four perspectives on this topic.

Understanding Emotional Connection and Mental Health
Providing Validation and Understanding of Demisexuality

Recognizing the Implications and Experiencing Self-Acceptance
Promoting Awareness, Acceptance, and Support

1. Understanding Emotional Connection and Mental Health

Unlike individuals who experience immediate sexual attraction based on physical appearance, demisexuality is a sexual orientation characterized by the need for a deep emotional connection.

This connection is often rooted in trust, intimacy, and a sense of connection with their partner before feeling sexually attracted to them. The intersection between demisexuality and mental health is complex and highly individualized.

For some, their orientation may lead to being misunderstood or feelings of isolation or confusion, especially in societies that prioritize immediate attraction. This may impact mental health by causing anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues.

On the other hand, having a strong emotional connection as a prerequisite for sexual attraction can also reflect communication, boundary setting, emotional stability, and well-being. It may also reduce the likelihood of engaging in risky or unfulfilling sexual encounters, positively affecting mental health.

Rebbeca Lahann, Psy.D., Psychologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, Spectrum Psychology and Wellness

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2. Providing Validation and Understanding of Demisexuality

Demisexuality is characterized by experiencing sexual attraction only after forming a strong and sincere emotional connection. Regarding mental health, a demisexual might struggle with feelings of isolation or misunderstanding, given our societal norms and expectations around instant or even casual attractions.

The key lies in providing a space where their experiences and feelings are acknowledged and validated. This allows them to fully understand and embrace their orientation as a natural and valid experience.

Bayu Prihandito, Certified Psychology Expert, Life Coach, and Founder, Life Architekture

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3. Recognizing the Implications and Experiencing Self-Acceptance

Demisexuals need a solid emotional bond before experiencing sexual attraction. This emphasizes an emotional connection as a precondition for sexual desire, unlike traditional attraction.

In terms of its intersection with mental health, demisexuality can have both positive and negative implications.

Deeper, more meaningful interactions can improve emotional well-being. However, it can also cause loneliness or frustration in a society that values casual or rapid sexual desire.

Understanding and accepting one’s demisexuality can positively affect mental health by fostering self-acceptance and decreasing societal pressures to conform to normative sexual behaviors. Those who struggle to establish these emotional connections may experience issues with self-esteem and feelings of isolation.

Ultimately, the relationship between demisexuality and mental health differs from individual to individual, highlighting the significance of self-awareness, self-acceptance, and seeking support when necessary.

Dr. Jennifer Silver, CEO, Owner, and Dentist, Macleod Trail Dental

4. Promoting Awareness, Acceptance, and Support

Demisexuality refers to individuals who only experience sexual attraction after forming a deep emotional connection. Misunderstanding and lack of awareness around demisexuality can lead to feelings of isolation and confusion, potentially impacting mental health. Acceptance, understanding, and support are crucial for mental well-being.

Amanda Miller, CEO, Angel Numbers Guru

Your Roadmap to Understanding: A Guide to Self-Awareness and Support

If you’re reading this, you’re probably curious or passionate about understanding the complex intersection of demisexuality and mental health. We’ve distilled the experts’ insights into a simple guide for better understanding and self-support:

Embrace Emotional Connection: Recognize the importance of emotional bonds in your relationships and how they intersect with your sexual orientation.

Seek Validation: Whether it’s from trusted friends, professionals, or support groups, it’s essential to validate your experiences and feelings as a demisexual. Validation often leads to acceptance, which can positively impact your mental health.
Foster Self-Acceptance: Accepting your demisexuality can reduce feelings of isolation and stress. Learning to appreciate your unique way of forming connections can be empowering.
Raise Awareness: Educate others about demisexuality to reduce misunderstandings and stereotypes. The more people understand, the more supportive your social environment will become, which can benefit your mental health.

From Our Desk: Navigating the Intersections of Demisexuality and Mental Health

The expert perspectives are an excellent starting point, but there’s more to this nuanced subject that we’d like to add:

Be Your Advocate: Don’t shy away from discussions around your orientation; take charge and educate people. Your advocacy not only helps you but also creates a more informed society.

Mind Your Mental Health: Keep an eye on your emotional well-being. If you feel your orientation is causing anxiety or depression, consider seeking professional help.
Community Connection: Look for online or offline communities where you can share your experiences and seek advice. Shared experiences often provide new insights and a sense of belonging.
Empower Through Education: There’s a power in knowing that you’re not alone, and it starts with education. Consider reading literature, studies, or online articles discussing the intersection of demisexuality and mental health.

Remember, your sexual orientation is just one facet of who you are. Embrace, understand, and let it be a source of strength rather than confusion or stress. The better you understand yourself, the healthier your mental state will likely be.

Explore Pride Counseling—Heal Your Demisexual Heart Today

About Jacob Maslow

After surviving the traumatizing events of 9/11, I took it upon myself to heal through helping others. I’m the primary caregiver of my children and understand from first-hand experience the lonely paths you have to walk as a partner and parent when leaving an unhealthy relationship.

We’re all echoing in a dark space that doesn’t have to be this empty, and that’s been my mission since finding solace and recovery in therapy: To help comfort others who are still in shock and at the prime of their struggle.

I came across BetterHelp after searching for this type of community. I wanted to belong to a body of proactive therapists and supportive therapy veterans that allowed me to see other sides of the story.

It was unconventional, and that’s what attracted me most. During my most challenging times, when my ex-wife completely cut me off from my children, I found comfort and clarity through BetterHelp.

Instead of being chained to a strict therapist recommendation, I was in charge of who I felt understood my struggle most. That’s what allowed me to find my true peace, as I was reunited with those who read behind my words and had first-hand experience with my trauma.

Recovery is a choice; with BetterHelp, that choice will be a few clicks away. You can join their LGBTQ+ platform pride counseling for those with family estrangement and toxic relationship patterns.