Breaking a porn addiction may not be a complicated process, but it can be challenging. The latest research, compiled by Dr. John Foubert, reveals that a large percentage of people have viewed pornography at some point in their lives. In fact, 64% of men of all ages and 34% of women ages 18-30 regularly view pornography. However, research also indicates that there is an increasing number of people experiencing problematic pornography use (PPU), which is characterized by tolerance and escalation, greater sexual responsivity toward pornography, and psychological distress. Although it is unclear how many people are addicted, it is evident that porn addiction is a significant issue, and more individuals are seeking help.
Related: Am I Addicted to Porn? 6 Symptoms of Porn Addiction
In this article, we will discuss important information on porn addiction and the necessary 5 steps to break free.
What is porn addiction?
Before delving into the steps to break free from porn addiction, it’s important to define what pornography addiction entails. It’s essential to understand what we’re dealing with before trying to overcome it. How can you tell if someone is addicted to porn?
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines addiction or “substance use disorder” as a complicated condition in which a substance is used uncontrollably despite harmful consequences. So, what does this mean for a porn user? Let’s explore this further.
The Debate Over Porn Addiction
The term “porn addiction” has gathered a lot of confusing interpretation. If you search for it, you may come across debates over whether porn is genuinely addictive. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), which is the official diagnostic manual used by clinical psychologists and therapists, does not currently include pornography in its list of addictions, leading some to argue that it doesn’t exist. However, this debate does not provide much help for those who are trying to quit their porn usage.
A significant body of evidence shows that porn impacts the brain in a way that is similar to other addictions. Regardless of whether you call it an addiction, compulsion, or habit, an increasing number of people feel trapped by porn. If you’ve attempted to break free from porn addiction, you know how challenging it can be.
Signs That Indicate Porn Addiction
Identifying porn addiction is relatively simple. It refers to anyone who desires to quit their porn habit but feels unable to do so. An addicted individual typically attempts to stop looking at pornography for a while, but eventually returns to it repeatedly. Another significant indicator is the last part of the APA’s definition, which refers to “despite harmful consequences.” An addiction can make someone ignorant of the adverse effects of their actions.
Psychologist and licensed clinical therapist Dr. Peter Kleponis provides more precise details on the issue. He identifies six common signs of porn addiction, including an obsession with porn, the feeling of being unable to function without it, and an increasing curiosity to seek out various types of porn to “chase the high” (such as violence, fetishes, etc.).
Can you break free from porn addiction?
If you’re displaying signs of porn addiction, you may feel trapped and helpless. However, we want to assure you that it’s possible to overcome this addiction. You’re not alone in this fight, and many people have found victory and freedom from porn addiction. Here are a few inspiring stories:
Jonathan shares that he used to watch porn every day for years, but now he can go days, weeks, and is aiming for months and years without it. He admits that it’s challenging, but he’s doing it for his loved ones, and that’s what freedom feels like.
Antonio struggled with porn since childhood, but after using the Covenant Eyes accountability service on his devices, he’s been 138 days porn-free and confident that he can live a porn-free life for years to come.
Ruth, a woman from a Christian home, found it difficult to admit that she had a problem with porn. But after seeking help and using Covenant Eyes on all her devices, she finally found freedom from her addiction.
Breaking free from porn addiction starts with a genuine desire to quit. If you’re not sure you’re ready to give up porn, take some time to reflect on the benefits of quitting. Once you’re committed to finding freedom, we have the tools, tips, and resources to support you on your journey.
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Here are some tips to help you break free from porn addiction
Tip 1: Find Your Why
Having a bigger goal than just recovery is crucial to overcoming porn addiction. Simply focusing on overcoming porn can be self-defeating. Instead, ask yourself, “What kind of man or woman do I want to be?” Take stock of what you hope to replace porn with, and ensure that it’s something you truly value.
Tip 2: Learn from Your Mistakes
Relapses are a part of the journey of overcoming addiction. It’s essential to identify your triggers and develop strategies to avoid them in the future.
Tip 3: Make It Difficult to Get to Porn
Online porn is highly addictive because it’s affordable, accessible, and anonymous. You can make it more challenging to access porn by installing a porn blocker on your computers and mobile devices.
Tip 4: Understand the Shame Cycle
Porn addiction often stems from deep emotional wounds or vulnerabilities. Porn promises pleasurable release and an escape from reality, making it an easy form of self-medication. However, shame can cause further wounds and motivate further porn use. Recognize and unravel the shame cycle with the help of a qualified counselor or therapist.
Tip 5: Get Accountability in Your Life
Accountability is crucial to breaking free from porn addiction. Humans are social creatures, and we need people to come alongside us in difficult times. Installing accountability software like Covenant Eyes on your devices can help shut down one of the major motivators for porn addiction.
Remember, recovery from porn addiction is possible. By following these tips and seeking support, you can break free from the cycle of addiction.
What causes failure in porn addiction recovery?
Before concluding with helpful resources, it’s essential to address two significant obstacles that many people face when recovering from porn addiction.
Firstly, quitting porn may lead to negative side effects during the detox process. Like substance addiction, your brain and body have been conditioned to respond to porn, so it may take some time to adjust back to normalcy. You may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as mood swings, anxiety, and sleeplessness.
Secondly, the amount of time it takes to recover can be daunting. While some individuals may successfully quit porn immediately, for most, it takes time to rewire their brains and establish new and healthy lifestyle patterns.
Don’t let these obstacles discourage you from seeking recovery. With the right mindset, support, and resources, you can overcome porn addiction and lead a healthier and happier life.
In summary, overcoming porn addiction is possible with the right mindset, support, and resources. It’s essential to find a bigger goal than just recovery and make sure it’s something you truly value. Learning from relapses, making it difficult to access porn, understanding the shame cycle, and seeking accountability are all crucial steps to breaking free from porn addiction. However, it’s important to acknowledge that negative side effects during the detox process and the amount of time it takes to recover may be challenging. Despite these obstacles, with patience, persistence, and professional help if necessary, it’s possible to successfully recover from porn addiction and lead a healthier, happier life.
Yes, with the right mindset, support, and resources, it is possible to overcome porn addiction and lead a healthier life.