How Much Porn is an Addiction?

By Derek Flint BSc PNCPS : UK-Based Psychotherapist and Addiction Therapist

How Much Porn is an 'Addiction' - Why Do I Watch Porn?

Pornography consumption is widespread, but when does it cross the line into 'addiction' or become a problem? Beliefs as to whether too much Porn is an addiction is hotly debated, for some it is characterised by compulsive viewing of pornographic material despite negative consequences, such as harm to personal relationships, career, or well-being.

It could be watching things you didn't mean to watch at first, feeling negative emotions and thoughts that don't fit well with your own personal values and truths. The important thing is your own perspective and personal beliefs about what you are doing and why you want to change or stop it.

Although not officially recognized as an addiction by major health organisations, its symptoms are often like those of other behavioural addictions. The terms porn addiction and sex addiction are used on my website as this is what most people search for when seeking help. What we are looking at is compulsive sexual activity that feels out of control or is having negative consequences. If you are reading this, you may be wondering whether it is getting out of your control or asking yourself if there is help available for sexually compulsive behavior.

Maybe there are early signs of this such as feelings of guilt or remorse, you don’t have to go through this alone and support is available.

If you aren’t sure, try this short questionnaire on the ATSAC website sex addict test or get in touch here and arrange a free initial consultation to discuss your situation.

The Hidden Nature of Porn & Compulsive Sexual Activity

Unlike substance addictions, considering whether porn is an addiction is challenging as it often lacks visible signs, making it harder to detect. However, it can be just as detrimental, leading to issues like decreased intimacy, communication problems, and feelings of shame and isolation. The accessibility, affordability, and anonymity of pornography contribute to its addictive potential.

Confidential and Supportive Therapy Options

Seeking help is a courageous step. Therapy for porn addiction is confidential and supportive, available both online and in person. I offer professional support to help you overcome a reliance on pornography and regain control of your life, stopping and changing unwanted behaviours and dealing with the underlying motivators for this. Maybe looking for a London Sexologist is something you have tried to help you with compulsive sexual activity that is causing you concern.

Support Groups in the UK

Peer support can be invaluable in recovery. Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) is a Twelve Step fellowship offering a safe space to heal from sex addiction and harmful sexual behaviours. They provide meetings across the UK, both in-person and online. Other support groups include Sexaholics Anonymous UK and Sex & Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA), which offer peer support for individuals struggling with sex and/or love addiction. These types of group are not without critics and they won't necessarily suit everyone. It is considering all options and finding what helps you.

The Recovery Timeline: A Unique Journey

Recovery from porn addiction and sexually compulsive behavior varies for everyone. Short-term success may take upwards of 3-6 months with the right help and new habits. Some recovery programs suggest 60 to 90 days as an expected timeline, while experts like Dr. Patrick Carnes propose a timeline of two or more years. If you are unsure or want to explore this, get in touch and arrange a free chat to help decide how you want to move forward and find out the answer to "how do I quit porn?"

Counselling Porn : The Role of Therapy and

Therapy plays a crucial role in addressing excessive use and finding answers as to whether your use of porn is addiction. I work from a Bio/Psycho/Social/Behavioural perspective and look at Opportunity, Attachment and Trauma to help identify the source of difficulties as well as finding ways forward making change possible to help stop the unwanted behaviour. As a porn addiction counsellor I use different therapies integratively to tailor the process to best suit you, your needs and goals and achieve the success you desire.

Comparing Porn Addiction to Other Compulsive Behaviours

Porn use can lead to decreased intimacy, communication, trust in relationships, and feelings of shame and isolation. These issues can be as impactful as those caused by substance addictions, even if they are less visible. The compulsive nature of porn use can alter behaviours and lead to more time viewing it than you really want. Similar to drug addiction, cravings and mood swings can occur and you may find yourself trying to watch it over other activities. This can also lead to seeking out different types of porn to achieve the same level of arousal and excitement. This can become problematic as it goes away from what you would consider as your norm. Prolonged use of porn can also lead to sexual ability being impacted including porn-induced erectile dysfunction (PIED) and delayed ejaculation.

Remember, you're not alone. Help is available, and recovery is possible.

Freedom

Get in touch to arrange a free and confidential consultation to discuss how I can help, I offer in person sessions from my office in Kent or Surrey and online porn addiction counselling - to arrange a free initial consultation fill out the online form here.