How are you holding up? What’s your stress? Do you know? Can masturbation help?

Stress is a feeling of emotional or physical tension. It can come from any event or thought that makes you feel frustrated, angry, or nervous. Stress is your body’s reaction to a challenge or demand. In short bursts, stress can be positive, such as when it helps you avoid danger or meet a deadline.

Emotional symptoms of stress include:

• Becoming easily agitated, frustrated, and moody
• Feeling overwhelmed, like you are losing control or need to take control
• Having difficulty relaxing and quieting your mind
• Feeling bad about yourself (low self-esteem), lonely, worthless, and depressed
• Avoiding others

Physical symptoms of stress include:

• Low energy
• Headaches
• Upset stomach, including diarrhea, constipation, and nausea
• Aches, pains, and tense muscles
• Chest pain and rapid heartbeat
• Insomnia
• Frequent colds and infections
• Loss of sexual desire and/or ability
• Nervousness and shaking, ringing in the ear, cold or sweaty hands and feet
• Dry mouth and difficulty swallowing
• Clenched jaw and grinding teeth

Cognitive symptoms of stress include:

• Constant worrying
• Racing thoughts
• Forgetfulness and disorganization
• Inability to focus
• Poor judgment
• Being pessimistic or seeing only the negative side

Behavioral symptoms of stress include:

• Changes in appetite — either not eating or eating too much
• Procrastinating and avoiding responsibilities
• Increased use of alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes
• Exhibiting more nervous behaviors, such as nail-biting, fidgeting, and pacing

Blood tests can be used to estimate how much stress one is experiencing. A cortisol blood test is one of the most commonly used blood tests. Cortisol is a hormone that is released by the adrenal glands when one is under stress. Higher levels of cortisol would indicate higher levels of stress.

Explore stress management strategies, such as:

• Getting regular physical activity
• Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi or massage
• Keeping a sense of humor
• Spending time with family and friends
• Setting aside time for hobbies, such as reading a book or listening to music
• Self-Care

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF MASTURBATION?
Little scientific research has been conducted to examine the benefits of masturbation. However, many experts have weighed in to say it can help combat anxiety, depression, and stress. Psychologist Dr. Becky Spelman, based in London, said endorphins secreted by the body during climax boost mental health.

Dr. Spelman, a relationship expert for We-Vibe, said masturbation can have physical benefits, too. In older women, it can maintain vaginal health and prevent vaginal atrophy – which often strikes at that stage in life. Endorphins, which give the same natural high as exercise can, can reduce pain.

Writing for The Conversation, two researchers at the University of Sydney said self-pleasuring can ward off a host of illnesses. These include cystitis and diabetes, while insomnia can be reduced through hormonal and tension release, the pair said.

Aim to find active ways to manage your stress. Inactive ways to manage stress — such as watching television, surfing the internet, or playing video games — may seem relaxing, but they may increase your stress over the long term.

Be sure to get plenty of sleep and eat a healthy, balanced diet. Avoid tobacco use, excess caffeine and alcohol, and the use of illegal substances.