5 Ways to Stop Watching Porn

Do you find yourself late at night, once again clicking on that incognito tab, feeling a mix of frustration and helplessness? In today’s digital age, access to explicit content has become easier than ever. 

Many of you related to the porn addiction video we posted a while ago, which is why we created this video to help those who are struggling with porn addiction. If you find yourself wanting to break free from this habit and regain control over your time and emotions, here are 5 simple, practical tips to help you stop watching porn:

Fortify Your Defenses

You’re scrolling through your phone, just trying to relax or catch up on the latest updates. Suddenly, a sexual advertisement appears, and before you know it, you’re heading down that all-too-familiar path. Want to kick the habit? Expert psychologists say that a good place to start is by knowing what sets it off in the first place. Once you can recognize the patterns that lead you down this road, you can start thinking of ways to break the cycle.  It’s all about being proactive rather than reactive. For instance, if you’re bored or lonely, you can join clubs that are related to your hobbies to connect with people.

Are you enjoying this video? Don’t forget that we have more videos like this on our channel. 

Habit Swap

We get it, reaching for your phone is tempting, but what if, instead, you grabbed a book or went for a run? Swap out the habit with something positive! According to Dr. Judson Brewer, an addiction psychiatrist, consciously replacing a not-so-great habit with a healthier one can rewire your brain, reinforcing positive behavior. It’s not just a simple switch; it’s like telling your brain, “Hey, there’s a better way to do this!” Choose an activity that gives you a sense of achievement, like reading or cooking. Over time, these new habits can be just as satisfying as the old ones.

Find Your People

Ever feel alone in the battle against porn addiction? It’s common to fear judgment, but seeking connection is crucial. Engaging in social activities offers distractions from porn. And according to author and expert Johann Hari, the opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety, but connection. It flips the script on how we usually think about overcoming addiction. It’s not just about abstaining from something; it’s about filling that void with something meaningful. So build a support network for yourself that can give you both a sense of belonging and accountability. Reaching out to friends or joining a support group can be uplifting during tough times. Remember, you’re not alone.

Map the Path

Do you measure your progress on the path to change? According to experts like psychologist Roy Baumeister, you should. Actually seeing your progress builds belief in your ability to change. Imagine the satisfaction of marking each successful day on your calendar, a tangible record of your triumphs in avoiding porn. It’s not just you giving yourself a pat on the back, but a celebration of the milestones on your journey to positive change. You can even take it a step further by documenting challenges and inspirations in a journal or using apps with reminders. 

Ask for Help

Are you feeling frustrated because it seems like you’ve tried everything already and nothing’s worked?  The constant cycle of trying and relapsing can be frustrating. It’s like one step forward and two steps back; the urge to open the porn site just comes back, sometimes even stronger. Dr. Paula Hall, a sexual and relationship psychotherapist, suggests seeking expert advice. Talking to a professional can offer personalized strategies and insights tailored just for you. Everyone is unique, and a therapist can help you understand what’s going on at a deeper level. Find specialists in addiction or sexual health and reach out. Expert guidance might just be what you need to finally break the cycle and kick this habit for good. You’ve got this!

Breaking the habit of watching porn is a personal journey that requires commitment, self-reflection, and support. By following these 5 simple ways, you can take proactive steps toward reclaiming control over your life and building more fulfilling connections with yourself and others. 

References:

• Baumeister, R. F., & Tierney, J. (2011). Willpower: Rediscovering the Greatest Human Strength. Penguin Press.
• Brewer, J. A. (2019). The Craving Mind: From Cigarettes to Smartphones to Love – Why We Get Hooked and How We Can Break Bad Habits. Yale University Press.
• Hari, J. (2015). Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs. Bloomsbury.
• Hall, P. (2013). Understanding and Treating Sex Addiction: A Comprehensive Guide for People Who Struggle with Sex Addiction and Those Who Want to Help Them. Routledge.
• Ley, D. (2014). The Myth of Sex Addiction. Rowman & Littlefield.