Amidst the global pandemic, individuals worldwide have encountered new levels of stress and isolation, leading to what many refer to as the 'Quarantine Blues.' However, emerging research highlights a natural remedy that's both enjoyable and beneficial—sex.
The Indiana University School of Public Health, in a survey commissioned by Pure Romance, has illuminated a silver lining for adults battling loneliness and depressive symptoms during stay-at-home mandates. The study found that one-third of participants experienced increased feelings of depression and loneliness in the early phase of the lockdown. Young women, particularly those in their twenties, were notably impacted.
Encouragingly, the same research indicates that adults who sustained regular social and sexual contact reported more favorable mental health outcomes. This correlation emphasizes the psychological advantages of maintaining intimate connections, even in the midst of an unprecedented health crisis.
Interestingly, parents with young children under five appeared to demonstrate heightened levels of affectionate behavior such as hugging and cuddling during the lockdown. On the other hand, those with school-age children noted a decline in such expressions of intimacy, potentially reflecting the challenges of juggling remote work and childcare without external support systems.
The report suggests that these trends are reflective of the varied demands placed on parents by 'stay at home' orders. Despite the obstacles, the studies emphasize the critical role that relationships and intimacy play in sustaining mental wellness.
As society gradually transitions back to normalcy, it's essential to remember the enduring value of personal connections. Nurturing the bond with our partners not only fortifies our immune systems but also our emotional ties. In essence, embracing more sexual intimacy may just be the key to dispelling the shadows of the quarantine blues.
*This article is based on findings from the 2020 National Survey of Sexual and Reproductive Health During COVID-19 by the Indiana University School of Public Health, which conducted an online survey from April 10-20 with 1,010 American adults aged 18 and above.