Can excessive masturbation cause anxiety, depression, or neurasthenia?
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Whether excessive masturbation leads to anxiety, depression, or neurosis depends on an individual's psychological state, behavioral patterns, and social adaptability. The relationship between masturbation and conditions such as anxiety, depression, or neurosis is not a direct cause-and-effect one, but rather influenced by the individual's perception, attitudes, and behavioral patterns. If you have any concerns regarding mental health, it is advisable to consult a qualified mental health professional.
Whether excessive masturbation leads to anxiety, depression, or neurosis depends on an individual's psychological state, behavioral patterns, and social adaptation abilities. The detailed analysis is as follows:
If an individual holds strong negative beliefs about masturbation, or experiences pressure from family, cultural, or religious backgrounds that lead them to view masturbation as wrong, the act of excessive masturbation may trigger intense inner conflict, anxiety, guilt, self-blame, and shame. If this persistent negative emotional state is not alleviated, it can easily induce or exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression, and may even develop into neurotic disorders.
For individuals who perceive masturbation as a normal and healthy way of meeting physiological needs, even frequent masturbation typically does not directly cause anxiety, depression, or neurosis—as long as they do not have negative internal evaluations about the behavior and do not experience significant psychological conflict as a result.
The relationship between masturbation and conditions such as anxiety, depression, or neurosis is not one of direct causation, but rather depends on the individual's perception, attitudes, and behavioral patterns. Anyone with concerns about their mental health should seek advice from a qualified mental health professional.
