New to the Sex Industry? Here’s Your ‘How-To’ Guide: Escorts Edition - Part II
MENTALLY, YOU MUST BE AT THE TOP OF YOUR GAME
“The sex industry is exhausting. It takes a massive toll on your physical well-being as well as your mental. Your mental health is key. You ALWAYS need to be on your A-game.” – Rachel, Escort.
Sex work is more than just sex. We’re companions. We’re a shoulder to cry on. We’re a safe space. We’re a distraction. As a practitioner, we always need to bring 100% to our clients, but who’s checking on us to make sure we’re 100%? No one is constantly at their best, and in an industry where service is key, it’s important to remember that the first person to look after is yourself. Whether it’s physical activity, reading a book, going for a walk, or catching up with friends, self-care for escorts is non-negotiable. Maintaining good mental health in the adult industry is just as important as any other profession—if not more.
As Rachel states, “We’re not perfect. Just like everyone else, we have days where we’re not at our best—physically, mentally, or emotionally. However, these are also signs from within our bodies telling us to slow down. If we don’t listen, it shows. Whether it’s with our work colleagues, managers, clients, etc., it shows. No one wants to spend their time with a Grinch!”
To help maintain a positive mindset and avoid escort burnout, it’s crucial to prioritise work-life balance in the sex industry.
“When I first started working as an escort, I worked 12-hour days, 5-7 days a week. At first, it was AMAZING. I was the ‘new girl’ on the block, attracting a lot of attention, booking constantly and consistently, and honestly, I felt unstoppable. It was like a drug high. I felt desirable, wanted, and sexy. For the first couple of months, it was perfect. However, just like every drug, the high wears off. Eventually, I burnt out. I felt sluggish, exhausted, I became easily sick, and started to resent the clients walking through the door.
Oh, it’s Alan again! I can’t stand him.
Here comes that boundary pusher!
This man actually drives me insane!
My intros started to suffer too—I was like a dead fish, and the more I worked, the less I got booked. I could feel my body falling apart. It was my turn to put myself first. So, I took a well-deserved break. It was the BEST decision I EVER made. I came back feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and found a new passion for the industry. I also took myself off the roster for the majority of my shifts and only allowed myself to work three days a week. I started heading back to the gym, catching up with friends, and even started seeing a therapist. It’s been a huge lesson for me—always put yourself first.”
How to Avoid Burnout in Sex Work
In this industry, clients like variety and change, and if they see the same name on the roster every day, they’re less likely to book. The key to longevity and success in the escort lifestyle is creating a schedule that prevents overworking and exhaustion.
“Some of the biggest money-makers in the industry only work 1-2 days a week. I’ve witnessed first-hand clients booking days in advance just to secure their spot with them. They do it because they know her time is limited. If they don’t see this particular girl on the two days she’s available, they’re forced to wait an entire week to have the opportunity again. That’s why most practitioners work at least 2-3 different establishments—a couple of days at one, one day at another, a few days somewhere else. It makes their clients desire them more.”
Taking that hard-earned break doesn’t seem so bad now, does it? Managing stress as an escort is all about balance. Listen to your body, protect your mental well-being, and remember—self-care is not selfish, it’s necessary.