Amidst the uncertainty of our times, it has become apparent that sex is not only good for your physical health—bolstering the immune system, reducing blood pressure, and elevating heart rate—but it also plays a crucial role in staving off the quarantine blues.
The isolation brought about by extended home stays and the lack of social gatherings, such as concerts and nights out, has left many experiencing heightened levels of loneliness. According to a survey by the Indiana University School of Public Health, backed by Pure Romance, a significant portion of adults experienced depressive symptoms and a sense of isolation during the initial phase of the lockdowns, particularly women aged 20-29.
Fortunately, the study indicates that adults who kept up regular social and sexual interactions were more successful in warding off negative mental health effects. Maintaining these connections proved to be a key factor in better mental health outcomes.
Family dynamics also influenced behavior during lockdown, with parents of children under five displaying more signs of intimacy, such as hugs and cuddles. However, those with school-aged children reported a drop in such intimate acts, possibly due to the additional pressures of managing remote work and childcare without external support.
The report highlights the ongoing importance of personal relationships for mental well-being as we navigate the changes in our daily lives. Despite new routines, the value of close connections, including sexual relationships with our partners, remains a critical component of our health. To bolster both our immune response and personal bonds, the message is clear: more sex can help you overcome the quarantine blues.
*Findings from the 2020 National Survey of Sexual and Reproductive Health During COVID-19 by the Indiana University School of Public Health, conducted April 10-20 in an online survey of 1,010 Americans ages 18 and over.