I have anxiety problem and i had panic attacks. i have not masturbated for a week. i was wondering if it helps my anxiety or makes it worse?

Masturbation & Brain: I would think that the natural and common human sexual experience of masturbation would lead to less stress. It is a relief valve for being tense. I would not think that masturbation would make stress worse unless one is feeling a religious guilt for this sexual behavior.

Variability: Masturbating in private is quite natural. However, some people feel guilty for doing it -- and in such cases, it may worsen anxiety because one is defying internal feelings that it's "bad" to masturbate. Other people may notice that intense sexual urges cause anxiety -- and that masturbating relieves this. So, people vary in their responses. It may help to discuss it with your own doctor.

You'd know best...: Well, are you relaxed by the "release" or more anxious by thought of "touching yourself"? Can be either, but if it helps, as long as not excessive or detracting from social / occupational activities, then is not a problem.