Australia
A 32-year-old male asked:
How to differentiate between sexual arousal and anticipatory anxiety?
5 doctor answers • 13 doctors weighed in
Dr. Bernard Seifanswered
Clinical Psychology 42 years experience
Anticipatory anxiety: is not specifically sexual in nature. We can have this prior to just about anything we do, especially if we are being evaluated for it. Feeling like we will be judged for sexual "performance" can cause anticipatory anxiety. So, they can be independent of one another or happen together. Focus on the feelings of others and it can help relieve the anxiety. Peace and good health.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Jalal Zuberianswered
Pediatrics 47 years experience
Could be similar: If you are aroused in anticipation of sex, it would be similar. If other thoughts or events brings on the arousal, you should get evaluated by your doctor who would need a detailed history.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Andrew Berryanswered
Clinical Psychology 16 years experience
Interchangable: Terms are interchangeable. Ready for action is ready for action. Enjoy!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Gabriel Clineanswered
Clinical Psychology 14 years experience
Stress is stress: Our physiological response to stress/ anxiety and arousal is the same. Our bodies don't differentiate between the cause or even if something is good or bad. Our bodies just respond, but we can control our thoughts about something and thus alter or manage our reactions. Talk to a psychologist about CBT and mindfulness and you will be well on your way to identifying your feelings.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Steven Griggsanswered
Clinical Psychology 41 years experience
If the anticipatory: anxiety is about sex, then they are the same. Anticipatory anxiety can occur in a variety of other circumstances, like just before Christmas, just before asking someone out, etc. Sexual arousal is more specific to sex, and should be fun. If its debilitating, see a mental health pro.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated May 11, 2016
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