Surprising psychological benefits of celibacy after Khloé Kardashian reaches four-year milestone

Khloé Kardashian has revealed she's gone four years without sex, and while some might find that difficult to imagine, it turns out there could be some major psychological benefits.

The 42-year-old reality TV star made the admission in a teaser for the new season of The Kardashians, revealing that she'd reached the milestone in December 2025.

However, it seems she's now considering dipping her toes back into the dating pool, declaring: "I'm single, I might be ready to mingle."

The mum-of-two, who shares True, eight, and Tatum, four, with ex Tristan Thompson, has previously opened up about her decision to step away from dating following their split.

Speaking to Elle last year, she explained: "It's so easy to hook up with other people and distract yourself."

She added that she'd started attending therapy and focusing on understanding herself rather than rushing into another relationship.

Khloé made the revelation that she has abstained for four years (instagram/@khloekardashian)

While sex is often associated with improved mood, reduced stress and emotional connection, experts suggest that choosing to abstain can have its own psychological advantages.

So, what exactly could four years of celibacy do for your mental wellbeing?

Greater self-awareness

According to WebMD, one potential benefit of celibacy is having more time to focus on yourself and your personal development.

For people who have spent years navigating relationships, taking sex and dating off the table can provide an opportunity to reflect on their own needs, values and emotional patterns.

Rather than seeking validation through romantic attention, some people may find themselves becoming more comfortable with their own company.

It's something Kardashian previously touched upon when discussing her decision to remain single.

"I need to figure out what's going on with me," she recalled thinking following her breakup.

Spending time celibate can boost your mental health (Getty Stock)

Less relationship-related stress

Sex can help relieve stress thanks to the release of feel-good chemicals, including dopamine, oxytocin and endorphins.

However, relationships themselves can sometimes be a source of anxiety, particularly when there's conflict, uncertainty or emotional upheaval.

Choosing celibacy may therefore offer some people relief from the pressures associated with dating and sexual relationships.

As intimate health expert Dr Shirin Lakhani previously explained to Tyla, abstaining from sex can affect mood-related chemicals, but doesn't permanently disrupt hormone production.

Of course, celibacy isn't guaranteed to make someone less stressed. Much depends on whether it's a decision they're genuinely happy with.

Improved emotional independence

Another potential psychological benefit is developing a stronger sense of emotional independence.

When someone deliberately takes a break from sexual relationships, they may discover new ways of finding fulfilment outside romantic intimacy.

That could involve spending more time with friends, pursuing hobbies or simply enjoying having fewer demands on their time.

Kardashian herself has spoken about prioritising her children and no longer feeling compelled to date.

Se admitted: "I am so happy," although she wondered whether she'd eventually want another relationship.

Many people find they feel less stressed and happier single and celibate (Getty Stock)

More time for personal goals

Celibacy can also free up time and mental energy previously devoted to dating or maintaining sexual relationships.

WebMD identifies increased focus as another possible benefit, particularly for those choosing abstinence to concentrate on other areas of their lives.

Whether that's career ambitions, friendships or personal wellbeing, removing the pressure to pursue sex may make certain priorities easier to manage.

However, these benefits aren't exclusive to celibacy, and people in healthy sexual relationships can experience them too.

Ultimately, there's no evidence that abstaining automatically improves mental health, just as there's no requirement to have sex to remain psychologically healthy.

Dr Lakhani said: "There is no medically 'normal' amount."

For some, celibacy might feel empowering, for others, it could bring loneliness or frustration.

What matters most is whether the decision feels right for the individual.