I am 19 years old and just recently started getting serious with my girlfriend. But I cannot, for the life of me, get an erection. Maintaining it isn’t the problem, it’s GETTING it. Nothing works. I can’t even masturbate. I have recently gone through a lot of stress with losing a friend, and I’m thinking that has something to do with it. I haven’t been eating as much either ever since the stress started. But this is just adding to things! Any suggestions?
Chosen Answer:
Jeff, is this a new physicial event, i.e., the erectile dysfunction? In the past have you been able to become erect via masturbation and/or intimacy with a partner? If your answer is yes, I am thinking the stress you are feeling from the loss of your friend may be attributing to your inability to attain an erection.
First of all, I would be honest with your girlfriend. If she isn’t understanding, see her to the door. In the meantime, you need to figure out a way to relieve your stress and work through the loss of your friend. You could try aerobic exercise (biking, running, swimming, stairclimbing, etc.), weight lifting, yoga, and/or journaling your feelings everyday—even if you don’t write anything that seems overly profound—just start jotting down your thoughts and feelings everyday.
I am sure this phase will pass, but give it time and but be gentle with yourself. If after 3-6 months you are still unable to get an erection, you are going to want to check in with your family physician. But I do feel that more than likely, this too shall pass and things will begin “looking up” again soon. Hang in there!
by: DTKB
on: 30th July 12