A YOUNG girl has revealed that she is struggling to stop watching porn and masturbating.
The 23-year-old woman confessed that she started watching pornography when she was in her early teenage years, and now, almost 10 years later, is slightly concerned.
A young woman has opened up on battling a porn addiction *stock image*[/caption]
The 23-year-old explained that not only has she watched pornography for almost ten years, but she also masturbates before bed every night too[/caption]
Not only this, but the anonymous woman explained that as a result of her porn addiction, she masturbates every night before bed.
As well as this, as a result of her regular masturbating, now men can never satisfy her.
Keen to open up on the situation, the woman took to social media to share her story, leaving many open-mouthed.
Posting on Reddit, on the r/NoFap thread, the woman, who writes under the username @fooxibutt, titled her post ‘I’m a 23 year old girl who is addicted to porn.’
She then wrote: “I’ve watched porn since I was about 14/15, and would masturbate a lot.
“It’s to the point where I can’t really sleep if I don’t masturbate, because I’ve masturbated every night before I went to bed, for so many years.
“Also I have never had an orgasm from someone else, I can only do it myself, when watching porn (or fantasising).
“I’ve never stopped for longer than four days or so, but I really want to stop.
“Also every time I’m done, I feel really tired and want to nap/sleep. It’s s****y.”
Eager for advice, she asked: “Where do I start? I don’t have the self control, I think..”
Recent statistics reveal the number of people addicted to porn in the UK has trebled since the start of the pandemic.
Figures released by the UK Addiction Treatment Group (UKAT) show 60,000 people in Britain visited its online porn addiction support site in 2021, compared to 10,500 people in 2020.
I have a normal dating life and I’ve had enough kinky moments, but they never satisfy me as much as I do myself
Reddit poster
And in a study by Ofcom, of the 13.8 million who watch porn online, a fifth do so during the working day, with each visit averaging 55 minutes.
The woman went on and confirmed: “Also, it’s not like I watch it because I don’t have sexual partners.
Signs you are addicted to porn
There is no definitive or formal definition of ‘porn addiction’.
It is not a clinical diagnosis and is given only a mention in the World Health Organisation’s ‘compulsive sexual behaviour disorder’ description.
Classification of what constitutes an addiction to porn addiction has been contested.
Therefore, experts prefer not to use an ‘hours-per-day threshold’ to diagnose porn addiction.
They say consumption is considered problematic if it interferes with daily life.
Psychotherapist Dr Paula Hall, who set up The Laurel Centre for sex and porn addiction, says: “The International Classification of Diseases document [maintained by the World Health Organization] says it needs to have caused significant distress in your life for at least six months.
“If it’s fun and not causing any problems in your life, it’s probably not an addiction.
“But for someone who has developed an addiction, it’s not fun any more.
“People know in their heart of hearts, ‘I need to get a grip, and I can’t’. That’s when it has become a problem.”
On the NHS page ‘Can you become addicted to sex?’ it says sex addiction is “any sexual activity that feels ‘out of control’.”
Some say those with porn addiction neglect self-care and responsibilities, socially withdraw, potentially engage in illegal activity or other addictions and live a ‘double life’, seemingly fine to others.
Other issues include porn-related erectile dysfunction or a general lack of sexual desire in real relationships.
“I have a normal dating life and I’ve had enough kinky moments, but they never satisfy me as much as I do myself.
“I want to enjoy them, and I think I can’t because of my porn addiction.”
REDDIT USERS REACT
Reddit users were left stunned at the woman’s admission and flocked to the comments to share their thoughts and advice.
One person said: “You should regain control of yourself, do some activities so you won’t think about porn, when an urge comes, go for a walk outside or do some workout.”
This addiction has taken so much of you. I think you really should go to therapy, do some exercise or try meditation
Reddit user
Another recommended: “Whenever you feel like you’re about to give in, stay positive and keep your goal in mind because it will literally change your and your close ones’ lives.”
A third commented: “You’ll be on this journey for years. Addiction isn’t something that just goes away, even if you never masturbate or watch porn over those next couple years.
“Your neural network will be primed for a long time to slip back into old habits and gratifications. Be strong, find happiness, good luck.”
Whilst someone else advised: “This addiction has taken so much of you. I think you really should go to therapy, do some exercise or try meditation.
“Try to stay sober, it will get easier to beat the urge with time.”
Getting help with a porn addiction
IF you think you, or someone you know, is battling a porn addiction, here’s everything you need to know.
Acknowledge the Issue:
– Recognising that you have a problem is the first and most crucial step.
Seek Professional Help:
– Consult a therapist or counsellor who specialises in addiction. They can provide tailored strategies and support.
– Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is often effective in addressing addictive behaviours.
Join Support Groups:
– Consider joining a support group, either in-person or online. Groups like Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) offer a community of individuals facing similar challenges.
Establish Healthy Routines:
– Develop new hobbies and interests that can divert your attention and reduce the urge to watch porn.
– Regular physical exercise and mindfulness practices like meditation can help manage stress and reduce addictive behaviour.
Set Boundaries and Controls:
– Use internet filters and parental control software to limit access to pornographic content.
– Create a schedule to limit screen time and ensure you have a structured daily routine.
Confide in Trusted Individuals:
– Share your struggles with a trusted friend or family member. Having someone to talk to can provide emotional support and accountability.
Educate Yourself:
– Learn about the impacts of porn addiction on mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. Knowledge can empower you to make positive changes.
Stay Patient and Persistent:
– Recovery is a journey and may involve setbacks. Stay committed to your goals and celebrate small victories along the way.
