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Pornography Addiction

When Porn Becomes a Struggle

Porn addiction has become a significant issue in our digital age. Accessing porn has never been easier and this has led to a significant rise in sex and porn addiction.

Porn use is common but for some, it can become something more than just occasional viewing. You might find yourself watching more than you want to, feeling out of control or using it to cope with stress, loneliness, boredom or difficult emotions. Over time, what started as a way to escape or unwind can lead to shame, isolation and a sense that something is off.

If you’ve tried to cut back or stop but keep going back to it or if it’s affecting your relationships, mental health or self-esteem, it may be time to take a deeper look.

You're not alone and there is a path forward.

Common Signs of Porn Addiction

  • Watching porn more often or for longer than you intended

  • Feeling unable to stop, even when you want to

  • Using porn to cope with emotions like stress, anxiety, or loneliness

  • Escalating content that no longer aligns with your values or interests

  • Guilt, shame, or secrecy around your use

  • Impact on real-life relationships, intimacy, or sexual satisfaction

  • Sexual issues such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or delayed ejaculation.

  • Feeling emotionally numb, disconnected, or isolated

Whether you use porn daily or occasionally, what matters most is how it’s affecting your life and how you feel about it.

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy offers a non-judgmental space to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface. Together, we can:

  • Understand the emotional and psychological patterns behind your porn use

  • Identify triggers and build healthier coping strategies

  • Changing maladaptive thought patterns and challenging unhelpful beliefs

  • Work through shame, isolation or underlying struggles like anxiety or depression

  • Rebuild your connection to yourself, your body and others

  • Support you in setting goals whether that’s cutting back, quitting or healing your relationship with intimacy

My own experience with Sex and Porn Addiction

As a recovered sex and porn addict myself, I understand the complex nature of addiction and the profound impact it can have on relationships, self-esteem and overall physical and mental well-being. I experienced deep shame for years and felt I had nowhere to turn. Through my own recovery, of which my own personal therapy was an integral part, I know that with the right help, recovery Is always possible.

This isn’t about shame or control, it’s about freedom, self-awareness and getting back in touch with what truly brings you peace, connection and fulfilment.

12 Step Groups

12 step groups, such as Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) and Sex and Pornography Addicts Anonymous (SPAA), can be highly effective for individuals struggling with sex and pornography addiction. If you are part of a 12-step program, therapy can be an invaluable help through the process. I have years of experience of 12 step groups having been a member of them myself during my recovery. However, twelve-step programs are not for everyone. Some individuals may find the spiritual or religious aspects of the program challenging or they may just not find them effective for their own recovery. It's important for each person to find the recovery path that best aligns with their personal beliefs and needs.

Take the First Step Today

Recognising that you could benefit from therapy is the first stop towards real change and personal growth. I offer a confidential and non-judgmental space where you can explore your issues and work towards a healthier and more balanced life. 

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