ABSTRACT
The purpose of this chapter is to do just that by: reviewing the impact of various psychological symptoms on sexual health; discussing common effects of psychotropic medications, alcohol use, and illegal substances on sexual functioning; and placing this knowledge within the consultation room of the bio psychosocial practitioner. To provide care that facilitates satisfactory outcomes for individuals, couples, or families, systemic therapists must be armed with up-to-date knowledge of the bidirectional interplay of mental and sexual health. The medications used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders are not as highly implicated in sexual side effects as the antidepressants. Treatment to alleviate anxiousness around sexual activity or to treat individuals with a pre-existing anxiety disorder that interferes with sexual functioning can improve one's sexual health. An Intersystem Approach to sexual health would not be complete without consideration of beliefs, sexual scripts, or trauma narratives passed down through generations.
