How Often Should You Have Sex to Fight Off Depression? Science Has an Answer

May 4, 2025

We all know sex can be great for stress relief, but now science is saying it might be a legitimate mental health booster. A large-scale study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders just revealed that weekly sex could significantly reduce the odds of depression.

🧪 The Study

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 15,000 adults, ages 20–59, and categorized sexual frequency into three tiers:

• Less than once per month

• More than once per month but less than once per week

• At least once per week

Their findings? Those getting laid less than once a month were far more likely to be depressed than their more active counterparts.

💡 Weekly sex was linked to a 24% reduction in depression odds.

Even having sex just a couple times per month saw a 23% lower risk of depression compared to the once-a-month (or less) crowd.

💡 So, How Often Should You Have Sex?

The data suggests that the sweet spot for better mental health is:

Between 52 to 103 times a year—or 1 to 2 times per week.

That frequency is now being considered a benchmark for positive sexual and mental health outcomes. Interestingly, researchers noted that having sex more than twice per week didn’t provide additional mental health benefits—so you don’t have to go overboard to feel the mood boost.

🧠 Is Sex the Cure for Depression?

Not quite. The study doesn’t prove causation—it’s observational, meaning people who have more sex might already be happier, more connected, or healthier in general. Still, the findings support earlier research linking sex with:

• ✅ Improved mood

• ✅ Lower mortality rates

• ✅ Decreased disability

• ✅ Higher overall life satisfaction

Back in December, renowned sexologist Dr. Tara Suwinyattichaiporn told The Daily Mail that going a month without sex could increase stress, anxiety, depression, and even anger.

So, if you’re feeling down and disconnected, the answer might not be only in therapy—it could also be in the bedroom.

🛏️ Adults Villa’s Take

Sex isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, psychological, and deeply human. At Adults Villa, we believe healthy sex (whether solo or shared) can be a powerful part of a balanced life.

Whether you’re in a relationship or flying solo, explore what makes you feel connected and alive. And if you need a reason to make more time for intimacy, just tell your partner:

“It’s doctor-recommended.”