The post is developed in partnership with BetterHelp.
Intimacy issues are a completely normal aspect of relationships. While they might not be as present at the start, it is common for them to develop over the years. Or, you may have issues from the very start.
Whatever your situation, you should know that your intimacy issues have causes and solutions. And as it turns out, understanding the causes can often be essential for figuring out the right solutions.
So, whether you’re in a brand-new relationship or having issues as a married couple, read on to learn more about what may be causing your intimacy issues and how you can work on overcoming them.
The Source of Intimacy Issues
If you’re reading this article, chances are you’re having some intimacy issues. That recognition alone is highly important as many people remain in denial about their problems.
The next step is figuring out the source of your specific intimacy issues. Doing so will enable you to understand how you can move forward.
And if you could use more support, you might consider the helpful online resources on intimacy available through BetterHelp.
Trust Issues
Trust issues are quite common in relationships, especially if one or both partners has trust issues based on prior experience.
A common aggravator of trust issues involves infidelity, though it’s far from the only source. In general, trust issues can cause major intimacy issues because one or both partners may be afraid of getting hurt.
Sexual Incompatibility
A frequent causer of intimacy issues is sexual incompatibility. Although this is a topic that people often prefer not to discuss, it is quite difficult to have great intimacy without proper sexual chemistry.
Infidelity
As mentioned, trust issues often develop through infidelity. In addition, infidelity may make it incredibly difficult to return to intimacy. The partner who has been cheated on may not feel like they can engage in intimate acts again for quite some time.
How to Overcome Intimacy Issues
Yes, intimacy issues can be a great challenge, but many people have successfully overcome them.
Read on to learn ways that you can work on them yourself.
Break It Down
It’s essential to try to break down your intimacy issues to the source of the problem. If you never take this step, you’ll be throwing darts in the dark.
To start, consider the sources mentioned above. That said, there are many possible causes of intimacy issues. You and your partner may need to reflect on the issues together and possibly with the help of a licensed counselor.
Be Patient
As tempting as it may be to try to force the issue with intimacy issues, it almost never works out. You will have to come to terms with the fact that this may be a long process.
Taking your time will show your partner that you respect them and are okay with taking things slowly. Try to slowly but surely (re-)introduce intimacy by holding hands or giving neck rubs.
Spend Time Together
Intimacy issues concern the bedroom, but they’re symptomatic of something larger. Your relationship in general may have lost a lot of its fun.
A great way to improve your overall relationship—and hopefully your intimacy issues—thus involves spending time together. Do something fun to strengthen your bond and it may rekindle that intimate spark.
Conclusion
Do you feel like your intimacy is gone forever? That can be a really tough feeling.
The good thing is that it doesn’t need to stay that way! If you stop and reflect on the true source of your intimacy issues, you’ll be better equipped to tackle those problems and move toward a healthier, happier relationship.