How Healthy Is Sexting? The Truth Behind the Screens

What Is Sexting, Really?

Sexting isn’t just about sending nudes — let’s get that out of the way. It can be text-based, photo-driven, voice notes, emojis... the whole spicy package. It’s any kind of sexually explicit content exchanged via digital devices.

It's become… kind of normal?

A study from the Journal of Adolescent Health found that over 50% of adults in relationships admit to sexting their partner. And not just once — it’s often a regular part of modern flirting, especially in long-distance dynamics or “situationships” (ugh, you know the ones).

The Psychological Side: Is Sexting Good for Mental Health?

The pros — yep, they exist

• Boosts intimacy: For couples (especially LDRs), sexting can keep the spark alive.

• Confidence booster: Feeling desired can be a major ego lift.

• Safe experimentation: You can explore fantasies without physically doing anything.

Honestly, that last point’s underrated. Some people use sexting as a way to communicate what they want but are too shy to say out loud in real life.

True story: A friend of mine once said she could never ask her boyfriend in person to try roleplay — but texting it? Easy. It ended up totally transforming their sex life. Wild.

But wait, there's a flip side

• Anxiety: Especially if you’re waiting on a response or worried about how you “sound”.

• Shame/regret: Especially after a breakup. (Yikes.)

• Pressure: Some people feel cornered into sexting to "keep things exciting" — which is not okay.

If it’s not mutual, it’s not healthy. Simple as that.

Physical Safety and Privacy Concerns

Leaks happen — let’s not pretend they don’t

Once it’s out there, it’s out there. Even if you trust someone, there’s always risk. Screenshots, hacks, revenge porn — all real threats. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t sext. But it does mean you should:

• Avoid showing your face (if you’re not 100% sure)

• Use secure platforms (Signal > Instagram DMs, just saying)

• Never sext under pressure (seriously, your gut knows)

PSA: If you’re under 18, sexting is not just risky — it can be illegal. In some places, even sharing explicit content of yourself at that age is considered distribution of child pornography. Not cute. Not legal.

Sexting in Relationships vs Hookups

In relationships: spice or routine?

Sexting can strengthen connection, sure. Especially when things feel a little routine. Some couples schedule it (no joke) to maintain intimacy during the workweek. Others go spontaneous and playful. Both are valid.

In casual flings: tricky business

It gets murkier when emotions are unclear. Sexting might feel intimate, but it doesn’t always mean intimacy. Be honest with yourself — are you expecting more? Or are you both just vibing for the night?

So… How Healthy Is Sexting, Actually?

Well — it depends.

If it’s consensual, respectful, and balanced, it can be super healthy. A tool for connection, exploration, and confidence.

If it’s coerced, anxiety-inducing, or manipulative, it can be damaging — mentally and emotionally.

Quick gut-check questions:

• Do you feel excited or nervous after sexting?

• Are you doing it because you want to, or because they expect it?

• Can you trust this person with what you’re sending?

If most of your answers lean positive, great. If not? Maybe pump the brakes.

Final Thoughts: It's Not Just About the Texts

Sexting is like a mirror — it reflects the vibe of the relationship. When done right, it’s fun, flirty, and freeing. When done wrong, it’s stressful, sketchy, and soul-sucking.

Your boundaries matter. Your consent matters. And your comfort is the baseline. Always.

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.