Porn addiction is probably more common than we think. This condition can significantly impact
your life and the lives of those around you. In this video, we will break it down.
Whilst accessing Porn isn't necessarily an unhealthy behaviour,
when porn use becomes excessive and negatively impacts your life
and your ability to function daily, this may indicate the development of porn addiction.
Porn addiction is a subcategory of sex addiction. People with this condition
experience an uncontrollable urge to seek out and view pornographic material. Over time Porn
addiction can negatively impact daily life, leading to problems in relationships and work.
This downward spiral is because individuals have trouble stopping these compulsions.
Is it a common problem?
The term "Porn addiction" has only become more widely accepted in the
medical profession in recent years, meaning we don't know how many are affected by this
condition. Some studies have suggested that somewhere between 3% and 6% of the population
suffer from porn addiction. However, it may be more common than we think.
In 2019, a prominent pornography website recorded an astounding number of visits—42 billion,
to be exact. To put this figure into perspective,
that averages 115 million visits daily, WOW. Such an enormous daily influx is mind-boggling
and surpasses the combined populations of Canada, Australia, Poland, and the Netherlands.
The advent of more advanced smartphones and tablets also means
Porn is more readily available, and compulsions can be harder to resist.
Signs of Porn Addiction?
Currently, there are no official diagnostic criteria for porn addiction, which makes diagnosis
all the more challenging. However, splitting the symptoms into three categories can help.
1. Excessive Use
2. Impact on Day-to-day Life and Relationships 3. Difficulty functioning without Porn.
First, symptoms related to excessive use: You may find that you are regularly
accessing Porn, including spending increasing amounts of time downloading and viewing it.
You experience intense impulses and cravings that compel you to seek out pornography.
and you may feel unable to stop using Porn despite the negative
consequences it has brought to your life and you may find that you progressively
explore more extreme or unusual types of pornography to find satisfaction.
Second, the impact on relationships: You may notice that your porn viewing habits
adversely affect your relationship, possibly leading your partner to express concerns.
You are reacting with anger or defensiveness when confronted about your porn use.
and you are displaying changes in sexual behaviour towards your partner,
such as becoming more dominant, aggressive, or emotionally distant.
Additionally
Long-term sexual dysfunction can
arise in relationships, including: the inability to become aroused.
You find it difficult to become sexually aroused or excited by your partner.
Erectile dysfunction Delayed/premature ejaculation.
And even… Difficulty reaching orgasm.
These forms of sexual dysfunction can significantly impact intimate relationships,
causing frustration, disappointment, and reduced satisfaction for both partners.
and excessive porn use during working hours can lead to poorer performance at work
Third, difficulties functioning without Porn: You may become dependent on pornography to alter
or improve your mood, and you may find that you are using it to relieve stress or reduce anxiety.
Can I manage porn addiction myself?
The first step to recovery is acknowledging that you have a
problem. This self-awareness is vital to break the habit.
We would always recommend seeking professional support if you are suffering
from porn addiction. However, I'm aware some may want to try self-help first.
SELF HELP
If you want to try to overcome a porn addiction on your own, here are a few tips:
1st Define your goals Write down your reasons for quitting pornography.
2nd Recognise your triggers Note common triggers that may lead to you watching
pornography, and try your best to avoid them. 3rd Find a healthy alternative.
Try to get back into an old hobby or take up a new one,
Spend time with friends and family to help occupy your mind.
And then finally, implement technology restrictions,
and what we mean by this is to use apps that help restrict your access to
pornography. Consider using website blockers, filters, and even accountability software.
If you find quitting on your own challenging or your addiction
significantly affecting your daily life, it's time to speak with a professional.
Make an appointment with your doctor or therapist to discuss this further.
Professional Help
The professional treatment for porn addiction follows a
similar approach to addressing other behavioural addictions.
Porn addiction is typically managed using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other
forms of psychotherapy. Therapy can be provided to individuals,
couples, and even group-based therapies.
Remember, breaking any habit takes time, effort, and patience. It's important to be
kind to yourself throughout the process and to celebrate small victories along the way.
Try to stay committed, persevere, and believe in your ability to overcome this challenge.
Pornography addiction is probably more common than we think. If you believe you
or a loved one is suffering from porn addiction, It's important to remember;
you're not the only one who struggling with this, and you don't have to suffer in silence.