Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to an increased risk for heart disease and stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression and anxiety, and even earlier death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For those who don’t have time for dating, who experience difficulties with intimacy, or who simply want to try something new, investing in a sex doll or hiring an escort can present appealing solutions for companionship, whether there’s a sexual element to it or not. When determining which is right for you, however, it’s imperative to first consider the benefits involved with each — as well as what you’re looking to get out of the experience.
The value in hiring an escort
An 1883 Magazine post highlights several great reasons for hiring an escort, whether you’re looking to explore your fantasies (with mutual consent, of course), spice things up as a couple, or you simply wish for a sense of companionship in keeping up appearances or going on dates. Without any strings attached or a deep emotional connection, this can present a great option for couples looking to try something new or for single individuals who aren’t looking for a committed relationship. “An escort is a professional worker who offers sex services, among other things. You can get a sense of companionship when you hire an escort,” explains the article, which goes on to mention that you can explore escorts based on their beliefs, what they like/dislike, etc. The 1883 Magazine post also points out that escorts can help in boosting your confidence, too. “Escorts can help you build your confidence by practicing and providing you with honest feedback.”
Doing some online research before jumping in is a great way to get a feel for what you’re looking for, especially when it comes to finding reliable sites that advertise sex dolls for sale services. When looking to find adult sex store near me, it’s important to compare and contrast different sites before choosing an option. While some sites are free to use, feature good rates, and verified users/profiles, downsides to look out for and keep in mind include spam/fake ads and the prices involved (for example, some sites charge a monthly fee). With that in mind, reading comprehensive reviews can be a great way to know what you’re walking into with a site before you even sign up.
The stress-free companionship of sex dolls
Around 15 million American adults have social anxiety disorder, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). Healthline notes that social anxiety “is persistent and overwhelming and may affect everyday activities, such as shopping for groceries.” For those who feel overwhelmed by the idea of hiring and interacting with an escort, buying a sex doll can present a solution for those looking for companionship without any added social pressure. A poll conducted on The Doll Forum (an online community home to over 18,000 members) found that 50% of sex dolls were bought for non-sexual reasons. Doll-owner Lemm, who has two dolls, told VICE: “When I come home they’re both there, sitting and smiling, waiting for me patiently. There’s no drama or pain, only nurturing and acceptance.”
Sex dolls can also be a fantastic solution for individuals and couples who wish to explore their sexuality in a way that puts pleasure to the forefront without the worry of complex feelings getting involved. “Sex dolls can act as an alternative to masturbation or the chance to explore same-sex feelings, desires, or mere curiosities. A sex doll is also more immersive than standard sex toys and can enhance your overall experience with something as realistic as possible,” explains one 1883 Magazine article. The article also mentions the use of sex dolls for couples who wish to experiment or explore fantasies in the bedroom, without the guilt, nervousness, or issues such as favoritism that might arise when bringing another human into the relationship.
Understanding what you’re looking for
While there are pros and cons to both sex dolls and escorts, understanding what you’re looking for is a great way to determine which is best for you. As one of the primary differences between the two is the presence/absence of the human element (feelings, emotions, dialogue etc.), asking yourself what you’re more comfortable with or interested in is a good place to start. For instance, if you’re looking for a way to explore sexual desires without complicated feelings or the pressure of social interaction, a sex doll can be a great investment. On the other hand, those looking for feedback, an emotional presence, and/or small talk (along with a sense of companionship) may prefer the company of an escort instead.
For those who are new to both sex dolls and escorts and are unsure as to which is more appealing, there is no shame in stepping out of your comfort zone. “Exploring with sex is like exploring with food. How are you going to know if you like something if you don’t taste it?” Janna Comrie, a psychotherapist who has spent years helping people work through their sex issues says. However, when trying new things, Comrie advises starting small, and offers a variety of starting points for sexual exploration. Going online, for instance, can be a great way to get any burning questions answered, while reading erotica is another way to explore any fantasies. Talking to a sex therapist and starting a dialogue with your partner regarding your thoughts are additional ways to explore the subject, and can further help in determining which option is best for you.
Both investing in a sex doll and hiring an escort present various benefits, though there can be downsides to one or the other based on what you’re looking for or are interested in. By considering primary differences and how you feel, starting a dialogue with a partner and/or doing some research online can be the next step in determining which option is right for you.