How can you tell if your porn addiction has gone too far? Signs that porn addiction has taken over your life include feeling the need to watch more and more extreme porn, finding yourself watching when you should be working or with friends, and losing interest in sex with people you know because it’s not as exciting as porn. However, even if these signs don’t apply to you, it’s important to realize that porn addiction is something many people suffer from and requires serious intervention to overcome it.
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Deal With Your Feelings
The first step to stopping porn addiction is dealing with your feelings. Examine why you feel like you need pornography to make yourself happy. If it’s as simple as wanting an escape from boredom, try something else that doesn’t rely on a person or thing to be happy, like exercise or listening to music.
Cut Off The Access
Getting rid of your Internet connection or smartphone may sound extreme, but it’s a method that has worked for many people. You don’t have to do it forever, but if you can just cut off access to pornography for a while—even just a day or two—you might find that you regain control over your impulses. When an addictive urge comes over you, remind yourself why you need to quit and imagine how good life could be without any more of those urges.
Remove the Urge To Watch Porn
The key to overcoming pornography addiction is finding a way to break yourself of your habit. Whether it’s watching porn, masturbating or otherwise engaging in these activities, you must find a way to stop if you truly want to overcome your addiction. Avoiding temptation will be easier if you remove all pornography from your home and avoid spending time at places where you might be tempted.
Set New Patterns For Behavior
It’s important to note that it will take some time for your brain to adjust to your new, pornography-free lifestyle. The first few days are going to be challenging, so don’t feel discouraged if you struggle at first. Continue to increase your time without porn each day and remember—being open with others will help you be successful in recovery.
Connect With People
Oftentimes, porn addiction is related to loneliness. Reach out to friends and family; if you feel comfortable doing so, talk with others about your addiction. If you’re not ready for that level of sharing, join a support group where you can connect with people who are dealing with similar issues—you’ll find they offer an incredible amount of compassion and support.
Be Conscious Of Old Triggers
Triggers are things that remind us of our former habit. When we go through major life events, like getting married or having a child, it can be difficult to break old habits. However, if you’re committed to breaking free from your porn addiction and want to continue doing so for years after you quit, then keep an eye out for these triggers and do your best to avoid them when possible.
