An Interview With... Kitten - Protecting Your Mental Health as a Sex Worker

[Guest lydiahardwood]

Next up for our interviews with the community is with @Kitten on a very important subject - protecting your mental health.

Q: Hey Kitten! It’s great to have you as our next Lyla interviewee. I’ve chatted to you a few times on Lyla so it’s nice to get to know you a bit better. Tell me about your career journey so far, how long have you been doing this for?

A: I have been into sex work off and one for decades really. As a teen I was riddled from depression and anxiety from childhood trauma out of my parents control. I dabbled a little as a teen/young woman before an attempt at a career. A career that helped me understand that sex provided hormones that helped my brain cope. When that got tough for me or I needed to make ends meet SW has always been my saving grace in one form or another (escort, cam, foot fans, etc).

Q: I'm sorry to hear you've struggled with that throughout your life. You've been very strong. What’s the ride been like so far in terms of your career? Tell us about your high and low points.

A: Its something that has helped me keep strong but I indulge quite independent and privately. I have met and explored so many interesting minds, and am fortunate to express with little harm.

Q: I think it’s safe to say that this isn’t a typical career path. Sex work is something that nearly everyone has an opinion on. How do you handle that?

A: I have been hearing others opinions on it since I have been the "slutty teen", or pigeonholed as such. I have done a lot of work with being confident with exploring and owning my sexuality and that involves learning that others fear and opinions don't matter if you wont allow them to. Do no harm onto others and learn to live how YOU chose to, not others.

Q: That is such a good mindset to have! Is there anything in particular with this job that can wreak havoc on your mental health?

A: lack of respectful communication skills from hobbyists can throw a wrench in the chain but I must admit it's the opinions and connections with other ladies I feel can be far more damaging. This is why its important we are kind to one another and lift each other up.

Q: What strategies do you recommend to keep your mental health in check?

A: Learn how to be confident saying no. The best thing we can do for ourselves is establish and maintain boundaries. What you're not comfortable providing, others will. Also spoil yourself! My thing lately has been mani/pedis but I have wanted to spa and be messaged more. I welcome hobbyists invites. I make great company! Wink wink.

Q: What things can people avoid that might be triggering?

A:  Arguments. Keep in mind defending yourself is still arguing and it's best to not engage, at all, sometimes.

Also just go ahead and block those who cant respect your time or ability to say no.

Q: If someone was struggling, what advice would you give them that may help?

A: Care, but careful not to try too hard. Just be you. I would suggest trying to connect with others but feel that can he challenging in this element.

Q: Have you got any further wisdom you can share with us?

What I have found just as effective at helping me balance is cannabis. Although I prefer playing sexually to help create much loved serotonin, I also feel cannabis helps me manage the hormones already coursing through my blood. I like feeling the rush of sexual play but also understand the importance of homeostasis and keeping balance. If cannabis isn't your thing, meditation and yoga are other great ways to bring balance to your system!
My biggest advice is stay strong and stay safe 💋

 

 

 

[Sharpe 767]

Thank you for this interview Kitten. 

[Kitten 1274]

7 minutes ago, Sharpe said:

Thank you for this interview Kitten. 

It was my pleasure to have the opportunity to share ❤

[Phaedrus 209521]

Thanks, Kitten! This is a really important subject to talk about, so I'm grateful that you have done so.

[NotchJohnson 214065]

Thank you @Kitten for the great interview and to @lydiahardwood for finding another great interviewee, keep them coming.

[HenryOcean 196]

Thank you Kitten! 

[Kitten 1274]

I adore you all 💋💋💋