From what I've seen, I don't think finding sex is the problem. Everyone is scared of feelings. I'm just glad I found my fiancé before the world of hookup culture got out of hand. Seems like everyone went crazy. Everyone is afraid of being themselves. How does that fear come into play?
Okay so you know how the first few months of a relationship, people put their best foot forward and try to impress the other person? Then after that their "true selves" show up, and that's when most relationships fall apart. Instead of just being honest on the front end, the fear of rejection makes people fake it. Some people would rather avoid the whole thing. They end up acting like they're dating, from going on dates, to hooking up, sleeping over, talking all day, saving each other as their damn phone wallpapers - but no, they're "not in a relationship." Mmmmmk that's not how things work. That's why people get hurt.
Sometimes sex should just be sex, with no strings attached, basically strangers otherwise. I'm not saying hookups or relationships are ideal over each other - everyone will have their own preference. But for those looking for the latter, hookup culture can be very sad and destructive. Feelings are a real thing that people need to deal with. Of course sex is intimate. And yeah, random sex can be fun, but it isn't the same. I think it's altogether different when there is a backbone or a degree of commitment and understanding.
Maybe a mixed bag is best. At least that's what I have with my fiancé. We love each other, we're getting married obviously. But there is an understanding there. We both crave random sex sometimes, so while our sex life is fulfilling on its own, we appreciate the fun of other outlets when available.
Perhaps commitment, longevity, and "being there" long-term are the only real solutions to the problems caused by "casual" sex. I don't pretend to have all the answers, but wouldn't that be ideal? Maybe I'm too romantic in my thinking.
It's important to have a relationship with yourself first. Loving yourself. Being OK with loving yourself. Being OK with who you are, not needing anyone to "complete" you. Truly seeking to do your best on a journey to be the best version of yourself you can possibly be. If you're the best possible version of yourself, why worry about faking anything? It's even more worth celebrating when you find a partner to help you love yourself more.