There is a deep connection between sex and mental health and why it’s not just about the orgasm sex isn’t just a physical act.

It’s tangled up with our emotions, our self-worth, and even our mental well-being. Whether you’re having it regularly, not at all, or somewhere in between, sex (or the lack of it) plays a bigger role in your mental health than you might think.  

1. Sex as a Mood Booster (Thanks to  Science!)

Ever noticed how a good romp in the sheets can make stress melt away? That’s not just in your head, literally. Sex releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals:  

– Oxytocin (the cuddle hormone) promotes bonding and reduces anxiety. 

– Endorphins act like natural painkillers and stress relievers. 

– Dopamine gives you that euphoric, “I’m on top of the world” feeling.  

It’s like nature’s antidepressant, no prescription needed. But here’s the catch: it only works when the sex is good and consensual. Bad or forced sex? That can do the exact opposite.  

2. When Sex is Missing: The Frustration Factor  

Dry spells happen, life gets busy, relationships hit rough patches, or maybe you’re just not feeling it. But when sex disappears for too long, it can mess with your head:  

– Self-esteem takes a hit (“Am I unattractive?”)  

– Anxiety creeps in (“Is something wrong with me?”)  

– Resentment builds (especially in relationships where one person wants it more)  

It’s not just about “getting some.” It’s about feeling desired, connected, and alive.  

3. Bad Sex vs. Good Sex: The Mental Health Divide

Not all sex is created equal. Great sex can make you feel invincible. Bad sex (or worse, obligation sex) can leave you feeling empty, used, or even ashamed.  

– Good sex = mutual pleasure, communication, presence.  

– Bad sex = performance pressure, disconnection, regret.  

If sex leaves you feeling worse afterward, it’s worth asking why. Are you doing it for yourself, or for someone else’s approval?  

4. The Dark Side: When Sex Hurts Instead of Heals 

For some, sex isn’t a happy topic. Trauma, dysfunction, or past abuse can turn intimacy into a minefield. If sex triggers anxiety, shame, or panic, therapy (especially with a sex-positive counselor) can help rebuild a healthier relationship with it.  

5. What If You’re Just Not Into It?

And that’s completely okay. Asexuality, low libido (thanks to stress!), or just personal preference, you don’t need sex to be mentally healthy. What matters is honesty with yourself and your partner(s).  

Read Also: Sex and Relationships: Effective Ways to Deliver Criticism to Your Partner Without Causing Conflict

Sex is Mental, Not Just Physical, your brain is your biggest sex organ. If your mental health is struggling, your sex life will reflect that. And if your sex life is off, your mood will too. The key? Don’t ignore it. 

Talk about it, explore it, and above all make sure it’s serving you, not hurting you.  

So… how’s your relationship with sex these days? (No judgment here.)  

Sex and sexual intimacy is a very sensitive and crucial part of a relationship and honestly, for some relationships, what would make or break it is the quality of sexual intimacy.

Bad sex therefore can leave one or both partners feeling dissatisfied, disconnected and frustrated and if not checked on time, in some cases can lead to the end of a relationship.

Whatever it is you struggle with sexually especially with your partner doesn’t have to be the end of your relationship and so this article would point out tips that would improve your sexual intimacy so you have a happier relationship.

1. Openly and Honestly Communicate

Healthy communication strengthens bonds

Communication is important for the growth of a relationship and that doesn’t exclude communication about sexual activity. One mistake a lot of people make is keeping quiet about something you don’t like that is going on.

If you don’t feel satisfied, speak up. You want to explore more, speak up. You don’t like a thing or two your partner does, speak up.

You are not a mind reader and your partner isn’t one either, the only way they know what they should improve on is when you communicate about it.

Don’t be scared to communicate your feelings or make the mistake of thinking you can endure it. Open up to your partner so you both can find a lasting solution to the issue or concern.

2. Prioritize Foreplay and Emotional Connection

Prioritize foreplay and emotional connection

Another mistake a lot of partners especially the males make is skipping foreplay entirely and rushing to sex. A study in 2022 by LELO found that 70% of women reported not getting enough foreplay before sex.

This could lead to dissatisfaction and disappointment as foreplay is not just about physical touch but also about connection and sexual intimacy with your partner.

To improve foreplay, try non-sexual intimacy including deep conversations, eye contact and laughter, explore different types of touch, either massage or light teasing, etc. This builds anticipation before sexual intimacy.

3. Stay Confident

Stay confident

Stay confident especially during sexual intimacy is important. A lack of confidence in your body or performance would lead to feelings of self consciousness and stress that reduces the quality of sex. The more confident you feel, the better the experience for you and your partner.

To boost sexual confidence, wear something you’re comfortable and confident in, especially for ladies. Make sure to focus on what you love about yourself and not your imperfections.

Most importantly, understand that sex is not about being perfect, it’s about connecting with your partner and the both of you fulfilling your sexual desires and expectations.

4. Keep Things Adventurous and Exciting.

Keep things exciting and adventurous

You begin to have a problem when sex feels like a burdensome chore and not something to look forward to doing with your partner. This is why you should not make sex a routine, it kills passion.

Here are things to try:

1. Explore a new location different from where you and your partner are used to or switch up the regular position.

2. Explore foreplay, fantasies and whatever else you both are comfortable with. Don’t be put in a box!

You can plan a surprise, intimate date that leads to sexual intimacy. Surprises spice up things too!

5. Educate Yourself and Explore Together

Stay informed and knowledgeable about intimacy and sexual activity

A lot of people have so many misconceptions about sex, relationships and intimacy and that is why being knowledgeable about some things would naturally improve the quality of your relationship sexually and otherwise.

Learn and grow together by reading books, watching videos, attending workshops that teach about intimacy. You can also discuss boundaries and desires openly and focus more on connection.

By noting and acting on these steps, you can improve the quality of your sexual activity and intimacy with your partner. The key focus is being open about your desire and striving to connect with your partner. With understanding, time and effort, you can build a happier, more intimate relationship both in and outside the bedroom.

READ NEXT: BUILDING PASSION: TIPS FOR LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIPS 

The Nollywood industry boasts numerous beauty queens, and at the premiere of Iyabo Ọjọ́, “Labake Olododo”, many top stars turned up. The movie is about how a fearless woman showed true strength and le!adership despite cultural issues. This star-studded event was graced by Bimbo Akintola, Roseline Afijo, Wunmi Toriola, Lolade Okunsanya, Muyiwa Ademola, Nkechi Blessing, Broda Shaggy, Funke Akindele, Ibrahim Chatta and a host of other top personalities within and outside the movie industry. Here are some of the hottest looks at the event.

Toyin Abraham

One of the top Nollywood stars that graced the occasion is the very radiant Toyin Abraham. Despite her tight schedule, Toyin found time to visit the red carpet show. Dressed elegantly in the traditional Iyalode attire, Toyin was looking frosh throughout the show. The white attire was uniquely adorned and showed how stylish this Toyin is.

Iyabo Ọjọ́

The host, Iyabo Ọjọ́ didn’t want to be left out as she adorned a royal appearance at the event. Queen Mother showed up in luxury attire, which shows how classy her fashion sense is. Iyabo Ọjọ́ came in a gold mini-dress with a touch of brown. She complemented her lips ik with a flashy necklace and her hands were filled with gold bracelets.

Chioma Ikokwu

Another top personality at the Labake Olododo Premiere was the enigmatic Chioma Ikokwu. She showcased her inner warrior aura with some masterclass outfits. She didn’t disappoint her fans as she came prepared to steal the show. Her necklace was awesome and her complementary accessories amplified her look.

Read Also : Chioma Good Hair Stuns in a Regal Gold Gown at Labake Olododo Premiere

Funke Akindele

‘Jennifer’ also graced the occasion with a beautiful presence. The ever-young Nollywood actress wore a butterfly-like Outlet, which was so elegant. Her pink clothes matched perfectly with her jewelry, and this thespian looked radiant in her outfit

Mercy Aigbe

Mercy is one of Nigeria’s top influencers, actresses, and media personalities. She was one of those who stunned viewers at the event with her Amazon-like outfit. She stormed onto the red carpet with a gold-plated and velvet-blended costume. Mercy brimmed with confidence for the occasion, which shows she is set to make a statement. This top Nigerian filmmaker, whose Block-buster movie, ‘ Ada Ọmọ Daddy‘, was among the best-selling movies in 2023.

Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori.

Popularly known as ‘Kiekie’, Olubukunmi is among the top content creators in Nigeria according to LeVogue Magazine. She is known to be an enigmatic figure in the industry and has appeared in top Netflix movies like “Ilé-owo”. She looked stunning in her wine outfit as Kiekie walked gracefully to the event. The actress also had a spear in her hand which complemented her outfit. She got heads rolling at the Labake Olododo Premiere as she moved around with an aura that’s hard to match.

Priscilla Ajoke Ojo

Aside from being the daughter of Iyabo Ọjọ́, Priscilla Ojo is one of the top Instagram stars and models in the country. She put aside her busy schedule to turn up for her model. This 24-year-old beauty was fully dressed up for this occasion. Priscilla,left no stone unturned as she dressed tastefully for the show.

Roseline Omokhoa Afije

Lagos-born social media star Roseline Afije, popularly known as ‘Liquorose,” was among the best-dressed stars at the Labake Olododo Premier. Born to Edo parents, Rose made a name for herself on Instagram and TikTok, where she dances choreography. Rose was dressed like an African warrior, and she moved in a fierce but royal manner..

The convener of the Labake Olododo Premiere, Iyabo Ọjọ́, took to her Instagram handle to thank everyone who came to the event and who has showed support . It showed how loved she is among movers and shakers in the Nollywood and hospitality industry.