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finding ways to overcome my porn addiction

northernlights101 November 21st, 2023

I've tried quitting so many times in the past but always ended up relapsing. i now, however, have understood the root cause of my addiction. stress and pressure. i don't enjoy porn anymore, but I can't stop watching it. it's crazy how it has ended up being one of my habitual activities, that I don't even know why I'm doing it. 

Now, however, I'm determined to make this work. porn affected my mental health a lot. i had reduced productivity and extreme procrastination. i know the problems now and hope to recover from this. i will try to update this thread as often as I can regarding my progress and if I ever relapse. 

people who are here like me, please do share your stories, they are always motivating. 

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glisteningLight2506 November 23rd, 2023
It's commendable that you've identified the root cause of your addiction and are determined to make positive changes in your life. Breaking habits can be challenging, but with determination and a proactive mindset, you can work towards recovery.

Here are a few strategies that might help you on your journey:

1. **Set Clear Goals:**
   Define your reasons for quitting and set clear, achievable goals. Having a sense of purpose can provide motivation during challenging times.

2. **Replace the Habit:**
   Identify alternative activities that can replace the habit of watching porn. Engaging in hobbies, exercise, or other positive outlets can help redirect your focus.

3. **Build a Support System:**
   Share your goals with friends, family, or a support group. Having a support system can provide encouragement and accountability.

4. **Seek Professional Help:**
   Consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor who specializes in addiction. Professional guidance can offer personalized strategies for overcoming challenges.

5. **Mindfulness and Stress Reduction:**
   Practice mindfulness techniques and stress reduction activities. These can include meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga, which may help manage stress triggers.

6. **Educate Yourself:**
   Learn more about the effects of addiction and the benefits of quitting. Understanding the impact on mental health can reinforce your commitment to recovery.

7. **Track Your Progress:**
   Keep a journal to track your progress and reflect on your journey. Celebrate achievements and learn from any setbacks.

Remember, recovery is a process, and setbacks may occur. If you face challenges or relapse, it's essential to approach it with self-compassion and use it as an opportunity to learn and readjust your strategy.

Your openness about your journey is brave, and sharing your experiences can indeed be motivating for yourself and others. Keep moving forward, and don't hesitate to reach out for support when needed.
1 reply
northernlights101 OP November 25th, 2023

Thanks a lot for taking the time to help me in this journey! I'm not sure if I can get professional help any time soon, however, I'm so grateful to see people motivate and share their experiences with me. Thank you again, I really appreciate the effort!!

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Zoraida November 24th, 2023

@northernlights101 I relate so much with what you wrote, even though my addiction is eating sugar. To some people, that sounds just stupid, but it has really sucked the life out of me, in the sense that I always feel tired, don't feel like doing anything, procrastinate, I've lost my faith in myself, my mind is in tatters.

Isn't it interesting how the things we are addicted with are so different and yet the symptoms are so similar? And like you said, I don't even like most of the things that I am eating but I do it anyway.

I am also trying to recover, coming back from a long period where I just felt defeated and didn't even bother. As part of that, I am on this forum/community, because I need to connect with people who can understand me. In 'the real life' nobody really does.

I wish healing upon you and thank you for writing about what you are going through, makes me feel less alone

1 reply
northernlights101 OP November 25th, 2023

Thank you so much for sharing your journey with me, it motivates me to reach for more! I hope you have an amazing recovery as well!!

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MoonLightShadow423 November 29th, 2023

Sometimes I relapse myself. I end up using porn as a sleeping aid or stress relief. Not the best way to go at it. I have been looking at it briefly here and there. Short amount of hours if possible. Slowly fade out of it hopefully. Been in a controlled environment where someone would monitor what I looked up online to block adult sites. Helped some, but didn’t fix the issue. Just suppressed porn addiction and looked at downloaded offline versions. Find loop holes around them. The more I kept busy with other things from video games, movies, going out to eat, or doing hobbies. Helped reduce the urges of looking at porn.

1 reply
northernlights101 OP December 3rd, 2023

It's nice that you've taken such efforts. I think the distraction helped you a lot, I'll try making new hobbies too!

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