This goes for any hardcopy porn you have, too. Dump those old magazines and risque calendars you have laying around so you aren’t tempted.
If you don’t want to tell anyone about your addiction, install the parental lock yourself. You’ll know the password, but the few minutes it takes to input it and get around the parental lock might be enough to wake you up and discourage you from watching any porn.
Pick an activity that you actually enjoy, not one that you dread. The more you can replace porn with a healthy habit, the better.
If you have anyone you trust a lot, consider opening up to them about what you’re going through. Having someone to hold you accountable can help motivate you to keep pushing forward, even when it feels tough.
For instance, maybe you watch porn when you’re feeling lonely. Therefore, you might make a plan to hang out with a friend 2 to 3 times per week to avoid that feeling. Or, maybe you watch porn when you’re feeling sad. You could make a plan to use a healthy coping mechanism, like journaling, instead.
You could also practice self-care or do a relaxing activity, like reading a book and listening to music.
Consider addressing ways to cope with depression and deal with anxiety. Talking to a mental health professional is the best way to make a plan that’s right for you.
You can look for a therapist who specializes in either sex or addiction (or both).
Porn Addicts Anonymous Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Sex Addicts Anonymous
It’s important to remember that you’re in control of your life. Although it might feel like porn is powerful, you’re the one in charge here.
Similarly, using porn too often can damage your romantic relationships. [16] X Expert Source Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFPClinical Therapist & Adjunct Professor Expert Interview. 19 August 2020. It can cause performance issues in the bedroom, which might drive a wedge between you and your partner.
Porn can be an addiction just like any other. While the treatment options may be different, the way you behave is exactly like someone who is addicted to drugs or alcohol.