Emotional Stress Key Factor in Men’s Sexual Performance – Dr. Twumasi Ankrah
Introduction
When discussing male sexual health, the conversation often gravitates toward physical stamina, hormonal levels, or pharmaceutical solutions. However, a recent insightful segment on Joy Prime’s Let’s Talk show has shifted the spotlight toward a crucial yet frequently overlooked component: the mind. Dr. Charity Twumasi Ankrah, a prominent health expert and the Chief Executive Officer of Chartma Herbal Health Centre, has identified emotional stress as a pivotal factor influencing men’s sexual performance.
While physical fitness is undeniably important, Dr. Ankrah argues that the psychological state of a man dictates his ability to perform intimately. This article explores her findings in depth, examining how daily pressures—ranging from financial burdens to family responsibilities—can significantly impact sexual health. By adopting a pedagogical approach, we aim to break down the complex relationship between mental well-being and sexual vitality, offering a comprehensive guide for men and couples seeking a holistic path to better sexual health.
Key Points
- Mental Relaxation is a Prerequisite: Dr. Ankrah emphasizes that sexual arousal and performance begin in the brain. A man must be emotionally and mentally relaxed to achieve optimal performance.
- Stress Overrides Libido: External pressures—specifically financial strain, work demands, and unmet domestic expectations—can suppress sexual desire and physical responsiveness.
- Age and Responsibility Correlation: Younger couples often experience fewer stressors, leading to higher energy levels and spontaneity. As responsibilities increase with age, sexual energy can diminish if stress is not managed.
- Beyond Medication: Many men mistakenly attribute performance issues solely to physical incapacity. Dr. Ankrah advocates for looking beyond medication to address lifestyle and emotional root causes.
- Holistic Health Approach: Solutions often lie in lifestyle adjustments and dietary changes rather than immediate medical intervention.
Background
To understand the significance of Dr. Ankrah’s statements, we must look at the broader context of men’s health. Historically, discussions regarding male sexual dysfunction have been dominated by a biomedical model. This model focuses on vascular health, testosterone levels, and neurological function. While these are essential physiological factors, they often fail to explain the full picture of why many men experience a decline in sexual performance.
The Modern Stress Epidemic
Modern society places immense pressure on men, often defining their worth through professional success and financial provision. This cultural backdrop creates a high-stress environment where anxiety becomes a constant companion. When the body is in a state of chronic stress, it produces cortisol—a hormone that, in excess, can inhibit the production of testosterone and constrict blood vessels, both of which are vital for sexual function.
Dr. Charity Twumasi Ankrah’s Perspective
Dr. Twumasi Ankrah is not just a medical practitioner; she is an educator and the head of multiple institutions, including Chartma Herbal Training College and Chartma Vocational Training Institute. Her expertise lies in blending traditional herbal knowledge with modern health insights. By speaking out on platforms like Let’s Talk, she bridges the gap between clinical diagnosis and everyday lived experiences. Her intervention highlights that sexual health is not merely a biological function but a psychosomatic one, where the mind and body are inextricably linked.
Analysis
Dr. Ankrah’s assertion that emotional stress is a key factor in men’s sexual performance warrants a deeper scientific and sociological analysis. How exactly does stress dismantle sexual function, and why is this link so strong?
The Physiology of Stress and Sexual Response
Sexual arousal is a complex process that requires the coordination of the nervous, vascular, and endocrine systems. It begins with the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes a “rest and digest” state necessary for relaxation and arousal. However, emotional stress activates the sympathetic nervous system—the “fight or flight” response.
When a man is worried about finances or work deadlines, his body is biologically primed for survival, not intimacy. This state triggers vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), which restricts blood flow to the penis, making erections difficult to achieve or maintain. Furthermore, stress stimulates the release of adrenaline, which can dampen sexual desire.
The Psychological Toll: Performance Anxiety
Dr. Ankrah notes that “the mind is already tired” by the time a man gets to bed. This mental fatigue often leads to performance anxiety—a self-fulfilling cycle where the fear of underperforming causes physical failure, which in turn increases anxiety. Unlike younger couples who may operate with a sense of spontaneity and lower stakes, older men often carry the mental load of their households. This cognitive load competes for the mental energy required for sexual focus and engagement.
Societal Expectations vs. Reality
There is a significant societal expectation for men to be perpetually ready for sex, regardless of their emotional state. Dr. Ankrah’s commentary challenges this stigma. By normalizing the impact of external stressors, she validates the experiences of millions of men who feel inadequate because they struggle to perform under pressure. This shift in perspective is crucial; it reframes sexual dysfunction not as a personal failure or a purely physical defect, but as a natural response to overwhelming life circumstances.
The Holistic View: Lifestyle as Medicine
Dr. Ankrah’s suggestion to look beyond medication is supported by integrative medicine principles. While pharmaceuticals can address the mechanical aspects of an erection (e.g., blood flow), they do not resolve the underlying emotional disconnect or fatigue. A holistic approach considers the totality of a man’s life—his diet, sleep quality, stress management techniques, and relationship dynamics. As Dr. Ankrah suggests, a simple change in diet and lifestyle can sometimes restore function more effectively than a prescription, particularly when stress is the primary culprit.
Practical Advice
Based on Dr. Twumasi Ankrah’s insights, here are actionable steps men can take to mitigate emotional stress and improve sexual performance naturally.
1. Prioritize Mental Relaxation
Before attempting intimacy, take time to transition from the stresses of the day. Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or a warm shower. This helps shift the body from the sympathetic (fight or flight) to the parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous system.
2. Open Communication with Partners
Dr. Ankrah emphasizes the importance of understanding within relationships. Men should communicate their stressors to their partners rather than internalizing them. When a partner understands that a lapse in performance is due to external pressure rather than a lack of attraction, it reduces the pressure to perform and fosters emotional intimacy.
3. Evaluate Lifestyle and Diet
As recommended by Dr. Ankrah, assess your daily habits. Incorporate a diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, and lean proteins to support energy levels. Reduce alcohol consumption and processed sugars, which can exacerbate fatigue and hormonal imbalances. Regular physical exercise is also a proven stress reducer and testosterone booster.
4. Manage Financial and Work Stress
Since financial pressure is a identified trigger, taking practical steps to organize finances or delegate work tasks can alleviate mental burdens. Even small steps, such as creating a budget or setting boundaries at work, can free up mental space for intimacy.
5. Seek Professional Help
If lifestyle changes do not resolve the issue, consult a healthcare professional who adopts a holistic approach. Dr. Ankrah suggests that practitioners should investigate the root cause rather than immediately prescribing medication. This may involve counseling or therapy to address chronic anxiety.
FAQ
Can emotional stress cause permanent sexual dysfunction?
Generally, sexual dysfunction caused by emotional stress is not permanent. Once the stressors are managed or the individual learns coping mechanisms, sexual function typically returns. However, chronic, untreated stress can lead to long-term issues, which is why early intervention is key.
Is sexual performance decline in men always due to age?
No. While age can play a role in physiological changes, Dr. Ankrah highlights that younger men are also susceptible to performance issues due to modern stressors like financial pressure and work demands. Age is a factor, but lifestyle and emotional health are often more significant contributors.
How does diet impact sexual performance?
Diet affects vascular health, hormone production, and energy levels. A poor diet can lead to sluggishness and impaired blood flow, while a nutrient-dense diet supports the physical stamina required for sexual activity. Dr. Ankrah notes that dietary adjustments can sometimes solve performance issues without medication.
Should I take medication for stress-related sexual issues?
Medication is not always necessary. Dr. Ankrah advises looking at the whole picture first. If the root cause is stress and lifestyle, medication may only mask the symptoms. Addressing the emotional and mental well-being is often the more sustainable solution.
What is the role of the partner in managing this issue?
Partners play a crucial role. A supportive, understanding environment reduces performance anxiety. When couples view sexual health as a shared responsibility rather than an individual burden, the stress on the man is significantly reduced.
Conclusion
Dr. Charity Twumasi Ankrah’s insights serve as a vital reminder that sexual health is a holistic endeavor. By identifying emotional stress as a key factor in men’s sexual performance, she sheds light on the invisible burdens that many men carry daily. The path to improved intimacy does not always lie in a prescription bottle; often, it lies in relaxation, open communication, and a balanced lifestyle.
For men struggling with performance, the message is clear: your mind matters. By prioritizing mental well-being and addressing the root causes of stress—be it financial, professional, or relational—you can reclaim your vitality. As Dr. Ankrah suggests, a relaxed mind and a healthy lifestyle are the foundations of a satisfying sexual life.
Sources
- Primary Source: Joy Prime’s “Let’s Talk” show featuring Dr. Charity Twumasi Ankrah.
- Organization: Chartma Herbal Health Centre, Chartma Herbal Training College.
- Publication Reference: Life Pulse Daily / MyJoyOnline (Published: 2026-01-22).
- Medical Context: American Psychological Association (APA) – Stress effects on the body.
- Health Context: Mayo Clinic – Stress and male sexual dysfunction.
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