Online Hypnotherapy for male sexual performance anxiety: how erectile disfunction is often all in the mind.
Over the past nearly two decades of practicing hypnosis for empowerment and confidence, I have observed that around 30% of my sessions are focused on addressing male performance anxiety, an issue that is more common than many may realize.
Statistics indicate that a significant number of men are affected by performance anxiety. Studies show that approximately 5% to 20% of men experience erectile dysfunction, and performance-related concerns contribute to a considerable portion of these cases. Furthermore, societal pressure and unrealistic expectations can compound the issue, impacting a broader range of men.
How does male performance anxiety start?
Understanding how this issue often begins is crucial in addressing it effectively. For many men, performance anxiety starts early in life due to a lack of proper guidance, support, or comprehensive sex education. The pressure to perform well during initial sexual encounters can lead to heightened anxiety and fear of failure. This negative cycle becomes self-reinforcing, causing them to expect failure and further hindering their ability to achieve and maintain an erection. Consequently, men may become preoccupied with thoughts of potential failure, leading to an avoidance of intimacy altogether, resulting in a fight or flight response.
Various factors can contribute to performance anxiety, such as alcohol consumption, stress, and negative past experiences. The lingering thoughts of past performance issues can perpetuate the problem, leading to a continuous cycle of self-doubt and overthinking.
It is essential to recognize that some men may face criticism or shaming from women, which can significantly impact their confidence and performance in intimate situations. Unfair judgment about physical attributes or other aspects can create self-doubt and exacerbate performance anxiety.
What is happening in the mind and body for someone with sexual performance anxiety?
Addressing the cognitive foundation behind this problem is crucial to overcoming performance anxiety. Common thoughts that plague men with performance anxiety include: "It won't work," "I will fail," "I need to do it fast," "I am inadequate," and "I should avoid it." The body doesn’t feel relaxed, often elevating the stress related levels of cortisol. It is important to emphasize that most men experiencing this issue can achieve an erection when masturbating, indicating that the problem lies primarily in performance anxiety, which arises when involving another person in the act.
How can hypnosis help overcome sexual performance anxiety?
To overcome performance anxiety, working with clients involves learning to establish a relaxation response, the opposite of the fight or flight response. The focus is on being fully present in the moment and disconnecting from negative self-talk. By cultivating thoughtlessness, presence, and enjoying the intimate experience without any expectation or outcome, clients can gradually shift their mindset and approach towards a more positive and confident state. They ultimately learn to stay relaxed and become fully present, in the moment of the sexual pleasure and connection.
How effective is online hypnosis for male performance anxiety versus in person?
Online hypnosis has proven to be just as effective as in-person sessions in addressing sexual performance anxiety. During the hypnosis part of the session, clients' eyes are closed, and they simply need to listen attentively. Additionally, clients receive a recording of their session, which they can listen to for reinforcement over three weeks. A self-hypnosis technique is also taught to continue reinforcing the positive programming.
If you or someone you know is struggling with performance anxiety, reach out for a 15-minute evaluation to discuss how online hypnosis can offer effective solutions to address this common issue and pave the way for greater confidence and enjoyment in intimate experiences.
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Watch this 90-second video to learn more about Elena Mosaner’s work in hypnotherapy
Elena Mosaner, MS, is a Certified Hypnotherapist, Master NLP Practitioner, and ICF Certified Coach with over 15 years of experience in helping people with habit-building, conquering fears, confidence-building, performance, and other personal development and wellness issues. She is also an author and the founder of HypnoCloud, a digital hypnotherapy app. Contact us for your complimentary consultation.