Impotence can be defined as a consistent failure to achieve or maintain an erection that is necessary for a satisfying sexual intercourse. Impotence is not a disease but a medical condition often referred as ‘Erectile Dysfunction’.

Although impotence is commonly related with age, it is not a condition that is exclusive to old age. Recent surveys say that more than thirty million men in the United States have erectile dysfunction and that more than 50% of men between the ages of 40 and 70 are suffering from some degree of erectile dysfunction.

There are numerous factors that can lead to impotence and can be broadly classified as physiological and psychological causes.

Psychological causes of Impotence

It has been decisively proven by recent clinical studies that 10 to 20% of men are directly affected by psychological impotence. Erection is obtained as a result of a series of actions starting with mental stimulation from the brain. When we have doubts or negative thoughts, the brain cells react accordingly sending messages that will restrict the flow of blood into the penis, causing impotence.

It is common to experience occasional incidence of impotence. This may be due to stress or fatigue and it is very important to realize that these isolated episodes are not symptoms for chronic impotence. If this makes you more anxious it will only lead to further failure which results in more anxiety and the cycle becomes unending.

Most men relate their ‘ability to perform’ with their masculinity and feeling of self-esteem. This puts more pressure on them when they have episodes of impotence resulting in fear, anxiety and subsequent loss of confidence. In the absence of any physical cause for impotence, it is imperative to remember that these isolated incidences are normal or it will increase the frequency of these episodes.

Some of the main causes for psychological impotence are:

• Depression is considered to be the major cause of psychological impotence. Ironically depression can also be a result of impotence. Medications and prescription drugs for anxiety disorders and depressions like anti-psychotics, anti-depressants and tranquilizers have serious side-effects that cause impotence.
• Psychological impotence is most often reflections of impotence due to some form of physical causes like injury or hormonal problems.
• Fatigue and stress are some of the other common causes for psychological impotence. Though the impotence resulting due to stress and fatigue are brief and transient, it is very important to be aware of its source and rectify it. Otherwise these episodes can become an on-going problem of impotence.
• The relationship between partners also plays an important role in causing impotence. A stressed out and skeptic relationship can be the root cause of your problem.

Treatment for Psychological Impotence

Psychological impotence can be treated by any one or more of the following:

• Understanding and being aware of the cause for impotence can solve 90% of psychological impotence. This can be done by simple counseling.
• Psychological impotence can be treated with psychotherapy by a professional therapist.
• Relationship problems could be solved by establishing a good communication between partners. Sharing your feelings and creating a stress-free, intimate environment can enhance your relationship.
• Psychological impotence can also be treated successfully with impotence medications like Viagra, Cialis and Levitra.