Depression: A common cause of ED, depression affects a person physically and psychologically. Depression can cause ED even when a man is completely comfortable in sexual situations. Drugs used to treat depression may also cause ED.

Is ED a symptom of depression?

One study even found that 82 percent of men with erectile dysfunction also reported symptoms of depression. The sexual urge that causes you to have an erection starts in your brain. When there aren't enough brain chemicals to stimulate the blood flow needed for an erection, erectile dysfunction results.

Can major depression cause erectile dysfunction?

Anxiety, low self-esteem, and guilt are common causes of erectile dysfunction. These are all symptoms of depression, but such issues can also occur naturally with stress and age. The NIMH explains that men are also more likely to lose interest in activities during depression.