The Types of Sex Toys and Mental Health
Let’s be real: when we think about sex toys, we usually picture pleasure, orgasms, and maybe some solo fun behind closed doors. But what if we told you that these little tools of joy do more than just spice things up in the bedroom? They can also have a surprising impact on your mental health.
We break down how, why, and what science and people are saying about sex toys and mental health.
From reducing stress and boosting confidence to helping people reconnect with their bodies, sex toys for men and women can play a subtle, yet powerful, role in emotional and psychological well-being.
When you orgasm, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals like:
- Dopamine: Linked to pleasure and motivation.
- Oxytocin: Known as the “love hormone”, it boosts bonding and trust.
- Endorphins: Natural mood-lifters and pain killers.
It’s not about being “naughty” – it’s about releasing built-up stress and reconnecting with your body in a positive way.
“Sexual pleasure is a form of self-care,” says Dr.Emily Morse, host of the podcast ‘sex with Emily’. “Whether solo or with a partner, it helps people feel empowered and relaxed.”
How Sex Toys Can Help With Anxiety and Depression
While they’re not a replacement for therapy or medical treatment, many people report that using sex toys helps them feel more grounded and present in their body. They also admit that they feel less disconnected from their emotions and more confident in their ability to experience pleasure.
Here’s why:
- Control in the chaos
Mental health issues like anxiety often feel like a loss of control. Choosing an adult toy, using it when and how you like, and tuning into your body is a form of autonomy – something that can help rebuild confidence.
- Feel-good rituals
- Mindfulness through sensation
Sex toys can help people practice mindfulness. Focusing on physical sensations pulls your attention into the present, which is a powerful way to silence racing thoughts or worries.
“Self-touch with toys can function like a body-based meditation,” says sex therapist Casey Tanner. “It connects us to pleasure in a deeply meaningful way.”
Sex Toys for Women: Confidence and Connection
For most women, especially those dealing with body image issues, trauma, or postpartum recovery, connecting with sexual desire can be tricky. Sex toys for women offer a low-pressure, judgement-free way to explore pleasure on their own terms.
Benefits for Mental Health
- Helps rebuild sexual confidence after childbirth or illness.
- Encourages exploration after trauma or difficult relationships.
- Offers control and predictability, which can feel emotionally safe.
- Allows for quiet, private intimacy when energy levels are low.
Sex Toys for Men: Releasing Shame and Embracing Self-Care
There’s still a lot of stigma around men using sex toys, but that’s changing – and fast. Sex toys for men like masturbators, prostate massagers, or vibrating sleeves aren’t just about release.
Sex toys can also help reduce sexual anxiety, allow for stress-free solo time, encourage better understanding of your own body and desires, as well as improve mood and focus by regulating hormones.
Plus, prostate stimulation is proven to boost blood flow and release endorphins – both of which support mental clarity and emotional well-being.
Improving Relationship Health
It’s not just about solo play – sex toys can also enhance partner intimacy, which plays a big role in emotional well-being.
Couples who use toys together report:
- Better communication.
- Reduced performance anxiety.
- A stronger emotional connection.
- Increased sexual satisfaction – even outside of toy use.
Couples toys can make sex more playful, less pressure-filled, and way more interactive.
Sex Toys and Mental Health = Well-Being
Your sex health is a major part of your overall well-being, but it often gets overlooked. Ignoring it can lead to emotional disconnection, low self-esteem, and even relationship strain. Sex toys help close that gap.
By normalising pleasure and curiosity, toys empower people to talk openly about what they want, reduce shame around self-touch or desire, and view their body in a more caring way.
All of this contributes to better emotional regulation, resilience, and even motivation in other areas of life.
Choosing the Right adult Toys for Your Emotional Needs
If you’re new to adult toys and interested in exploring for mental wellness, here are some suggestions which you can find from Luvland’s adult toy store range
For Anxiety and Stress Relief
- Wand vibrators (deep, rumble stimulation = relaxation).
- Bullet vibes (small, discreet, easy-to-control).
For Reconnection and Self-Love
- Clitoral suction toys
- Internal vibrators with warming features
For Mindfulness and Presence
- Textured strokes for men (focuses sensation)
- Prostate massages (deep internal relaxation)
Sex Health and Mental Health Matter
Using sex toys isn’t just about chasing an orgasm – it’s about learning to listen to your body, reconnect with your needs, and treat yourself with care.
In a world full of stress, anxiety, and performance pressure, taking a few minutes to indulge in pleasure is powerful. It’s a personal, private way to prioritise your well-being – no shame, no judgement.
So, whether you’re exploring sex toys for women, sex toys for men, or something in between, know that you’re not just feeding desire, you’re nurturing your mental health too.
If you’re struggling with sex drive, then be sure to check out our article that focuses on expert tips and guidance on low libido: Boost your libido in 10 easy ways
