Romantic relations, sexuality and intimacy among young adults and adolescents with severe mental illness: a review of the literature.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Individuals with severe mental illness (SMI), including schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, often face significant challenges in developing and maintaining romantic and intimate relationships. Despite a strong desire for companionship and sexual expression, these individuals frequently encounter barriers such as social stigma, cognitive issues, and psychiatric symptoms affecting social functioning. Existing research primarily focuses on general social engagement rather than the specific complexities of romantic and sexual relationships. This narrative review synthesizes recent literature (2017-2023) to explore the intersection of SMI with sexuality, intimacy, and romantic relationships among adolescents and young adults.

Methods

A narrative review approach was

SUBMITTER: Belluzzo M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12750685 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature