During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have been impacted, none more so than sex workers.
In the UK, the lockdown and social-distancing measures have severely impacted the sex industry, leaving many sex workers in a vulnerable position not only financially, but also mentally.
If you’re a sex worker and are in need of support with your mental well-being, there are measures you can take to help manage your mental health. Read our guide below for more advice.
Mental health is the terminology used to describe a level of cognitive or emotional quality and balance of life or the absence of mental illness.
Mental health disorders are one of the leading causes of ill health worldwide. The World Health Organisation states that 1 in 4 people will suffer from mental health at one point in their lives. To help raise awareness, the World Health Organisation recognises World Mental Health Day on October 10th every year.
Poor mental health can affect every aspect of your life, including relationships, work and your physical health, and can be impacted by internal and external factors. Recent studies have highlighted COVID-19 as a significant external factor impacting people’s mental well-being.
According to a study by mental health charity Mind, 60% of adults and 68% of young people under 25 have reported that their mental health has worsened during the lockdown.
The Centre for Mental Health believes that approximately half a million more people will experience a mental health problem over the next two years as a result of the pandemic.
Not only does evidence suggest that COVID-19 has caused mental health issues in sex workers, but studies also reveal that “existing mental health problems are likely to be exacerbated” by issues related to the pandemic, such as anxiety over income and housing.
According to further research, the most common mental health disorders currently experienced by FSWs (female sex workers) are:
While studies on the mental health of male and transgender sex workers are limited, information and resources on this subject can be found here.
According to several empirical studies, there are a number of factors (both structural and sociological) that can impact the mental health of sex workers.
They include the lack of:
Social stigmas associated with sex work have also been strongly associated with mental health illnesses in sex workers.
Research conducted by the University of Leicester found that social stigma has averted many sex workers from accessing vital care and support.
If you are struggling with your mental health, it is advised that you seek the support of a professional who will help you identify the reasons behind it and the best way to treat it. However, there are some things that you can do yourself to help improve your mental well-being. They include:
As well as the tips above, there are many mental health services that provide support to sex workers who are experiencing issues related to mental health and mental well-being.
Here are just some of the reputable mental health charities and organisations (sex worker focused and general) in the UK that you can seek support and advice from:
Sex worker specific:
General:
It’s important to realise that there are many circumstances that can impact and affect a person’s mental well-being.
As well as taking care of your physical health, it’s important to take care of your mental health to enable you to fulfil key functions, such as work productivity, dealing with stress effectively, and forming and maintaining healthy relationships with others.
If you feel you need support for your mental health, get help today.
If you need more advice and support, here are some articles you may find helpful:
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