It is important to deal with these feelings. Only then can you begin to accept the way your body has changed. Depression can interfere with your desire to be intimate. The symptoms of depression include difficulty sleeping and eating, feeling tired and without energy, sadness, a pessimistic outlook and loss of interest in how one looks. If you are depressed, you may feel unattractive to your mate and not interested in giving or receiving affection.
Depression is common after a stroke, but it is treatable.
Finding someone to listen and understand helps. Medications called anti-depressants are available. They are prescribed by a doctor and can be very effective in treating certain kinds of depression. Careful grooming and attractive clothes can help you feel your best. This may take extra effort at first, but you will feel better about yourself.