The essentials of life are those behaviors that are necessary for life to continue. It is amazing how many people ignore the importance of the essentials. Air Breath the cleanest air you can. Water Drink enough water to keep your urine light yellow to clear. In reality, it is not sexuality that is an essential of life.
People actually have great needs for touch and intimacy.
If a baby does not get touch, it will fail to thrive. Just like babies, adults need touch. Adults also need intimacy. Some people put up with horrendous sexual activity to get the touch and intimacy that they really need. If you want to know what Americans really believe, Don't read what they write, Don't listen to what they say, Just follow their money.