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Sexuality education for the most common demographics |26 September 2019

“It is fundamental to speak openly and without taboos about sexuality, especially here in Seychelles, to better inform the population on a subject which concerns us all, whatever our age. It is also important to know that we are all entitled to have a sex life and sexual well-being that is as fulfilling as possible.”

This was said by Jonathan Matile, locally-based Clinical and Developmental Psychologist, in commemoration of World Sexual Health Day, observed on September 4 this year.

This year, the theme for the day was ‘Sexuality Education for all: a bridge to sexual health’ which emphasises the need for comprehensive relationships and sexual health education for all (World Health Organisation).

 

In response to the global calls to educate people about sexuality, Mr Matile shares his own knowledge and advice for some of the most common demographics, with a strong focus on themes which he feels are important for people in Seychelles.

 

Children/adolescents

Unfortunately, far too many young people think of learning about sexuality through pornography which is very easily accessible to them on the internet. This is why sexuality education is an essential step for children and adolescents to understand their physical development and sex life as a couple.

The notion of love, complicity, respect, trust and responsibility, especially with regard to contraceptives, are of course also concepts associated with sexual well-being.

 

Individuals

Often single men and women can feel guilty about practicing masturbation, yet this practice is quite natural for everyone.

In addition, this solitary pleasure reduces stress, promotes sleep, improves self-knowledge and one's own body, stimulates the heart rate and reduces the risk of prostate cancer.

I think it's important therefore to replace that feeling of guilt by reminding ourselves that masturbation is a natural practice that is good for mental and physical health.

 

Women

In recent years, the ‘Me Too’ movement which supports female victims of sexual violence, has been denouncing sexual criminals and the same people who thought themselves ‘untouchable’ like celebrities, politicians or religious people around the world.

Unfortunately, this movement seems non-existent here in the Seychelles and yet the cases of sexual assaults are very high.

I advise all victims of sexual violence to come out of silence, to dare to speak without feeling guilty about anything, and to file a complaint against their abuser.

You will see that simply breaking the silence is psychologically liberating and part of the process of psychological recovery from the trauma experienced. Moreover, if a rapist is convicted, it means that the victim's courage to report their attacker has most likely protected others from further sexual violence.

It is important to realise that today in Seychelles, absolutely no one is above justice and we currently have a better judicial system than ever before. Moreover, at international level, strong solidarity with all victims of sexual violence is now taken very seriously by the courts.

 

Men

Many men have experienced an erection disorder that is often caused by fatigue, stress, illness, tobacco, alcohol or age, especially those between 40 and 70 years old. Fortunately, there are medical treatments that can help you if you consult your doctor. However, to help prevent erectile problems, you can protect yourself through regular exercise, avoid smoking and alcohol.

 

Couples

Communication on sexuality is a subject that is often underestimated among couples. Speaking honestly about everything, talking about what you like in the sexual act as well as what you do not like, and talking about all your sexual fantasies; this communication will bring you better complicity that will additionally spice up your sex life as a couple.

For more information, contact Jonathan Matile:

-           Telephone: 28202 88

-           Email: jonathan.matile.psychologue@gmail.com

 

 

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