Porn addiction is considered by some medical professionals, to be one of the many manifestations of sex addiction. It is an all-consuming compulsion and obsession that many addicts hesitate to talk about due to the societal stigma attached to it. Porn addicts may struggle to reach out for help because of overwhelming shame and guilt around their behaviour. Indeed, secrecy is one of the hallmarks or side effects of porn addiction. It is a form of addiction that can ruin relationships, cause financial problems and result in feelings of extreme anxiety and depression.
Because there is no substance (such as drugs or alcohol to turn to as the tell-tale sign), porn addiction may be more difficult to identify in oneself or others. But one of the most characteristic side effects of porn addiction is the feeling of absolute powerlessness over the compulsion to watch porn or consume pornographic material. For many addicts who find themselves in the grip of this form of addiction, watching porn can cause significant disruptions. As a result, porn addicts may feel compelled to watch porn at inappropriate times, such as at work, during social gatherings or in times when family or friends should take priority.
Many porn addicts attest to the fact that, just as in the case of addiction to a drug or alcohol, one develops a certain level of “tolerance” to pornographic material over time. It is therefore not uncommon for porn addicts to feel the need to watch increasingly more porn or more explicit porn in order to satisfy what can be called a craving.
Another major side effect of porn addiction is the inability to stop watching porn despite experiencing negative consequences. Spending exorbitant amounts of money on pornographic material even when one cannot afford it, is often a symptom. Likewise, the secrecy that comes with hiding one’s addiction can cause strain in romantic relationships, but that too is often not enough of a deterrent.
If left untreated, the side effects of porn addiction, when compounded with the everyday challenges of life, can result in a destructive downward spiral into extreme isolation and depression. The most important thing to understand is that this behaviour can be arrested and with a program of recovery, addicts can be rehabilitated and shown a new way of life, free from the compulsion to watch porn.
If you or a loved one is in search of help for porn addiction, know that help is readily available. Contact us for a free consultation and we’ll support you in your journey.
