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Pornography Addiction
While it is still controversial whether pornography addiction is a real disorder, individuals suffering from it know that it is a condition that disrupts their relationships, their lifestyle, and in some cases, even their ability to function. For those who suffer from pornography addiction, it is helpful to know that it can be addressed by medical professionals, just as any other substance disorder or addictive behavior.
Non-substance-related or behavioral addictions that are not dependent on substance use are categorized under Addictive Disorders. The effects and impacts of addictive disorders may be similar to substance-related disorders, including mental health, social and family responsibilities, and regular activities.
In the case of pornography addicts, research shows that sex and porn are used as activities that enhance the rush of dopamine in the brain, compelling a person to continue engaging in an activity that may eventually lead to addiction, despite of negative consequences.
There are several options for treatment of porn addiction, including therapy, hypnosis and medication assisted treatments, depending on the patient’s needs.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been shown to be effective in identifying and changing patterns of thinking and behaviors that are addictive.
Working with a professional therapist who can help a person recognize and understand their relationship with porn will provide tools and techniques to address their addictive behaviors.
Hypnotherapy and meditation-based guided techniques have been shown to be effective in addressing the deeper issues causing porn addiction.
In cases where porn addiction is threatening a relationship, couples counseling can help address how to cope with the addiction as partners.
In extreme cases of pornography addiction, serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be used to treat co-occurring psychiatric disorders. Opioid antagonists have also shown to be useful in treating pornography addiction and other compulsive sexual behaviors.
Addiction to pornography can be a difficult topic to seek help about. If you think you are experiencing compulsive behaviors, as opposed to addictive behaviors, you may try to make lifestyle changes such as less access to pornographic materials, removing triggers in your environment, and expanding your activities to include healthy alternatives of exercise and entertainment.
You may also join support groups such as Sexual Addicts Anonymous, or Sexaholics Anonymous to find resources and accountability partners to manage your addiction.
If you are experiencing an addiction that is threatening to destroy your relationships, your life and your work or family responsibilities, it may be time to seek treatment.
When you start looking for treatment, you may notice that therapists hold differing viewpoints on pornography, where some may believe it’s not an addiction at all, whereas others may endorse sex-positive treatment options. Find a treatment center who you can align with, with respect to your beliefs and needs.
If you’d like to have a confidential call about how the process works, please reach out: 866-415-6313
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