1. Masturbation boosts mood and self-esteem
In addition to the fact that self-pleasure is the easiest way to get a dose of happiness hormones, it's also a way to boost self-esteem. At least for women. Thus, according to data from an American study The Use of Self-Pleasure: Masturbation and Body Image Among African American and European American Women , ladies who masturbate more often are more satisfied with their bodies.
Female masturbation has many other benefits. Loverssex' dedicated a separate article.
2. BDSM practices are linked to mental health
There is a stereotype that BDSM is only for the abnormal, but science proves otherwise. In a study Psychological characteristics of BDSM practitioners from 2013, researchers compared people who practice BDSM and those who prefer conventional sex. It turned out that the former surpassed the latter on a whole range of positive psychological characteristics. For example, they are more satisfied with life, open to people and new experiences, and less prone to neuroses.
3. Depression lowers libido
During depression, many lose interest in life in general and sex in particular.
It is sad that some antidepressants also suppress libido.
Of course, this does not mean that depression should not be treated. It should be, but under a doctor’s supervision.
4. Sex alleviates symptoms of depression
Even more ironic is the fact that intimacy helps people feel better during depression. The reason lies in serotonin and oxytocin, companions of orgasm, which correct the chemical imbalance in the body. Of course, the effect is only temporary.
5. Sex reduces anxiety
Anxiety, like depression, hinders people from having sex, but, as with depression, sex helps to combat it. This is because during orgasm, the areas of the brain responsible for anxiety become less active How Orgasms Shut Down Our Brains .
6. Hypersexuality can be a sign of OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder can manifest in various ways: from constant hand washing to obsession with masturbation or sexual fantasy. Fortunately, treatment can alleviate these symptoms.
7. Casual sex has ambiguous effects on mental health
Sex researcher Zhana Vrangalova foundIs Casual Sex Hazardous to Your Mental Health?
that casual encounters can have a positive or negative impact on a person's state — depending on the reasons behind them.If a person's motivation is "wrong" (to please someone or to take revenge), then they can expect a decrease in self-esteem, depression, and increased anxiety.
However, if the reasons are "right" (to explore one's sexuality or to gain new experiences), then self-esteem will increase. In this situation, casual sex will not affect the level of depression and anxiety.
Conclusion
Sex is not a panacea; it will not help to deal with all psychological problems. But sometimes, with its help, one can assess one's own condition and understand how to improve it.
