People with severe mental health problems experience more difficulties in their sexual lives than the general population, and sexual health remains a neglected dimension of their overall care.
Sexual health is considered fundamental to overall health and well-being according to the World Health Organization.
People with severe mental disorders experience more difficulties in their sexual lives compared to the general population.
Sexual health represents a specific area of concern warranting dedicated exploration in individuals with severe mental health problems.
This research highlights that sexual health — which the World Health Organization recognizes as a fundamental part of overall health and well-being — is frequently overlooked in the care of people living with severe mental health conditions. The article points out that this population faces greater challenges in their sexual lives compared to the general public, yet these issues tend not to receive adequate attention from healthcare providers. The article explores the specific sexual health concerns that arise for people with severe mental disorders, framing sexual health as a 'forgotten factor' in their overall care. This suggests that mental health treatment often focuses on psychiatric symptoms while neglecting the sexual dimension of patients' lives, which may have broader consequences for their well-being and quality of life. This research suggests that healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, should integrate sexual health considerations into the holistic care of people with severe mental health problems. By recognizing and addressing these overlooked needs, care providers may be better positioned to support the overall health and well-being of this vulnerable population.
Martinez J. (2025). [Sexual health, the forgotten factor in the overall health of people with severe mental disorders].. Soins; la revue de reference infirmiere. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soin.2024.12.004