With Joe Biden withdrawing from the reelection campaign, a recent attempt on Donald Trump's life, and several devastating wars happening globally, many people are experiencing heightened stress levels. Unfortunately, this stress often affects the bedroom, reducing both pleasure and desire.

So, how can you manage the complex relationship between world events and intimacy?

Is it more challenging to engage in sexual activity when there's so much happening in the world?

It's common to find it difficult to prioritize sex amidst a constant flow of distressing news. In fact, studies have shown that increased stress levels can significantly reduce sexual interest for 80-90 percent of people.

When someone is experiencing this, they have two main choices. They can either decide to take a break from sex for a few weeks to focus on other areas of their life, or they can choose to put more effort into their intimate life to reignite their libido and counteract the effects of stress.

Both options are valid and healthy, and the choice depends on each person's current priorities.

Why is sex and intimacy still important when there seem to be bigger issues at hand?

Some people have asked whether it's selfish to focus on their sex lives while there are significant global issues, like wars, occurring. While being aware of the different challenges faced by people around the world is important and can inspire positive actions, neglecting your own well-being doesn't benefit anyone.

In fact, pleasure is a highly effective tool for reducing stress and burnout. The social connection and pleasure derived from sex release feel-good hormones, which can enhance your ability to engage with and support the social causes that matter to you.

Should my partner and I stay together if we don't agree on world issues?

I've worked with many clients who have vastly different political beliefs from their partners, and these differences can create tension in both the relationship and their sex life.

Ultimately, whether a couple stays together and maintains a healthy sex life despite differing political views is a decision only they can make. However, I've suggested to clients that they consider whether the issue is truly their partner's political stance or the underlying values behind those beliefs.

Political discussions can often be avoided by couples who don't see eye-to-eye, potentially removing a source of conflict. However, if the differences stem from fundamentally opposing moral values, this can lead to recurring tension and may be harder to resolve.

How can I keep political issues out of the bedroom?

Keeping up with political tensions in the States or seeing videos of the war in Gaza can make it challenging to feel desire for intimacy.

While it's important to stay informed, it's equally important to set healthy boundaries around politics to protect your intimate life.

I suggest not checking news sites too early or late in the day and avoiding political discussions in the bedroom. This way, your bedroom can remain a space dedicated to connection and pleasure. Limiting your news consumption to around 30 minutes a day can also be helpful.

Setting these boundaries doesn't mean you stop caring about world events. Instead, it allows you to remain engaged without feeling overwhelmed.

During stressful times, you might also find it helpful to spend more time on foreplay, giving yourself the opportunity to relax and find your sexual desire.