April is recognized as National Stress Awareness Month, and intimacy experts are emphasizing the detrimental effects of stress on sexual health. Stress can significantly reduce libido for all genders, as it leads to hormonal disruptions that inhibit arousal. For men, this often manifests as stress-induced erectile dysfunction. According to Gemma Nice, a sex and relationship coach, stress can cause cortisol spikes, redirecting blood flow away from the genitals and prioritizing survival functions instead. Everyday stressors such as work, parenting, and household responsibilities can leave individuals feeling exhausted and disconnected from their bodies, exacerbating anxiety and performance pressure. To break the 'sex stress' cycle, experts recommend eliminating the pressure to perform and fostering intimacy through low-pressure connections, such as gentle touches and eye contact. Safety is essential for arousal; creating a secure environment allows desire to flourish naturally.