Masturbation, a natural and healthy aspect of human sexuality, in reality, is a shushed topic. Though many do it, no one wants to talk about it. It helps people relieve their stress and boost their moods but since it is connected to one’s sexual behaviour, nobody wants to bring up this so-called personal matter in talks.
Since this habit can impact one’s mental well-being, I have chosen to talk about it. In today’s blog, I discuss the link between the habit of masturbating and one’s mental health. I have shared what is healthy masturbation and what are its positive effects and when this habit becomes negative for you. I recommend you read it to understand how long this habit will benefit you and at what point it will negatively affect you. Also, understand when and what support you require if you are a compulsive masturbator and want to get rid of this habit.
As mentioned above, masturbation can affect your mental health in both positive and negative ways. On the positive side, it helps relieve stress and anxiety. Sexual arousal and orgasm release endorphins and dopamine, which are natural feel-good chemicals in the brain. This can provide a temporary mood boost and help to reduce feelings of tension and worry. Additionally, masturbation can improve body image and self-esteem. By exploring their own bodies and learning what feels pleasurable, people may become more comfortable and confident about their sexuality. This can lead to a greater sense of self-acceptance and improved self-esteem.
However, excessive masturbation or compulsive masturbation can have negative effects on mental health.
When masturbation becomes a compulsive behaviour that interferes with daily activities or relationships, it may be a sign of an underlying mental health issue. Excessive masturbation can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety, which can negatively impact a person's self-esteem and mental health. These negative emotions can also contribute to depression and social withdrawal.
If you are concerned about the impact of excessive masturbation on your mental health, it may be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional.
A mental health professional can help address any underlying issues that may be contributing to compulsive behaviour and provide tools for managing the behaviour in a healthy way. This can include strategies such as developing healthier coping mechanisms, addressing any underlying mental health concerns and creating a self-care plan that promotes positive sexual expression.
In conclusion, healthy masturbation habits can promote self-esteem, body positivity, and stress relief, while compulsive or excessive masturbation can have a negative impact on one’s mental health. If you are concerned about this habit or its impact on your mental health, seeking support from a mental health professional can help you find a healthy balance. They can help you develop strategies for managing this compulsive behaviour. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sexual health and psychological wellness, so it's critical to find what works best for you.