Anxiety quick fix? Self love, honey

To say anxiety levels have been vibrating at an all-time high over the past year is one hell of an understatement

March 07, 2021

Wellbeing

Photography - Ava Sol

Contributor - Mariella Agapiou

But one good thing to come out of 2021 is that more and more of us are talking about mental health. About time. What’s not mentioned enough, however, is how we have a handy little treatment available to us all.

Feeling anxious, unfortunately, is a part of life. It happens to us all from time to time. And that’s natural. So is masturbation, honey. “It can be a form of stress relief or self-intimacy – an escape from the mundane, or a form of self-soothing,” says Dr. Janet Brito, a psychologist, certified sex therapist. “It is a perfectly natural and healthy approach to promote emotional regulation, enhance your mood, and be with yourself.” After getting home from a long, busy day, playing gives you an opportunity disconnect from the pressures of life – to reconnect with yourself, to chill, and to relax.

The science behind it is that self-pleasure helps to release dopamine and oxytocin – all those feel-good chemicals – which help with symptoms of anxiety or depression. It’s also argued that when we stop and spend time with ourselves, we slow down, stop racing thoughts, and hopefully reconnect mind, body, and soul. Licensed psychologist, Dr. Jennifer B. Rhodes, PsyD states that “Sometimes anxiety and depression can be related to a spiritual disconnection between our mind, body, and soul. Practicing self-love and honouring your body is one way to bring the connection back into alignment."

Masturbating also leads to feelings of empowerment. “It is no secret that research has shown that women who masturbate [have] higher levels of self-esteem, positive body and genital image, as well as reporting higher satisfaction in their sex life," explains Dr. Uchenna Ossai, pelvic health physical therapist and sex educator. While you may not be able to talk yourself out of an anxiety attack, these feelings of power that come from self-love offer strength in other areas of your life. Especially your mental health.

We’re not saying masturbation should replace therapy or medication. When anxious feelings are amplified, last long periods of time, or have even become so severe that they interfere with your daily life, seeking help is a must. It may seem daunting, but it won’t be once you bite the bullet.

For more information, or to speak to a professional about your anxiety, click here: thrive.ae/anxiety.