Many people experience loneliness at some point in their lives. The death of a loved one, moving to a new place for work, or losing a romantic partner can leave you feeling isolated. Financial problems, such as unemployment or working two jobs, can make you feel lonely too.
Social interventions, like therapy groups and a special bench that invites lonely people to sit down, have popped up to tackle the problem. But scientists say that meaningful relationships ease loneliness, not a full social calendar.
Sexy time
Sex is a powerful source of pleasure and emotional closeness. It isn’t the only way to feel connected, and it’s certainly not a cure for loneliness, but it’s one of the most important. Sadly, the rise in loneliness correlates closely with the decline of sex. In fact, more than a quarter of American adults hadn’t had sex in the previous year the last time the General Social Survey asked. It’s possible that sex can help people overcome loneliness, but it’s also important to have frequent and intentional communication with the person you love.
The bedroom offers a great opportunity for both partners to practice communication skills that can be useful in other settings, and it’s an excellent way to build trust. You can start by asking your partner what gets them turned on, and then identifying activities that will help you both get in the mood for sexy time. This can be as simple as whispering sexy things in their ear or stroking their back, or it could be more elaborate, like slow dancing to music that gets you both in the mood.
It’s also helpful to make a schedule for your sexy times, so you can set aside the time and energy you need. This will help you plan ahead and keep sexy time consistent, which is important for a healthy relationship.
Getting intimate
While sex is not a cure for loneliness, it can be a powerful tool to help people feel more connected and understood. However, individuals who struggle with sexual loneliness often try to overcome it by seeking distraction and attempting to fill their emptiness with superficial connections. This can be a dangerous and unhealthy way to deal with these feelings, leading to sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies. Instead, individuals should seek professional guidance for their concerns.
A trained therapist or counselor can provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment for exploring these emotions and developing healthy coping strategies. They can also help individuals work through underlying issues or traumas that may be contributing to their loneliness. In addition to therapy, there are many online communities and support groups for individuals who struggle with sexual loneliness. These communities can offer a sense of connection and community, as well as help individuals find acceptance and validation for their struggles.
Loneliness is a complex and widespread problem that affects all demographics, and it can have a profoundly negative impact on mental health. It can also lead to physical health problems, such as heightened cortisol levels and disrupted sleep patterns. For people who struggle with sexual loneliness, this can be particularly distressing, as it can lead to feelings of hopelessness and depression. For these reasons, it is important to recognize and address the root cause of this issue.