Statistics have shown that one third of all men in the United States reported that they are addicted to pornography. Many of us would consider that a startling statistic, but what do you think? Does it surprise you? If you think you might be addicted to pornography, you're not alone. Below are three signs of porn addiction you should watch out for.
1. Secretly Watching Porn Several Hours Per Day
Do you find yourself spending more and more time watching pornography than when you first started? And if so, is this something you hide from your partner? It's true that many people who watch pornography are not addicted to it, but if you find yourself spending several hours per day watching porn, there's a good chance that you are addicted or are in the process of becoming addicted.Make no mistake: pornography is a real problem for many people, and it can be just as addicting as cigarettes, alcohol or illegal substances. And just like addictions involving substance abuse, pornography addiction can be just as difficult to permanently overcome without professional counseling.
The amount of time spent watching pornography is not by itself proof that an addiction is present, though. In cases of true psychological addiction, other signs will be present.
2. Losing Interest In Having Sex With Your Partner
If your interest in pornography is starting to interfere with or take the place of physical intimacy with your partner, then that is definitely a sign that something is wrong. Sure, there may be times when you are simply not in the mood for sex, whether due to physical exhaustion, mental exhaustion or conflict in the relationship. Everyone experiences those situations sometimes. The problem occurs when you start to see a pattern of behavior in which pornography becomes a substitute for sexual intimacy on a regular basis.If you are viewing pornography on a daily basis yet have not had sex with your partner for several weeks or months, then that is a red flag that should be taken seriously. Regular intimacy is a necessary part of a healthy relationship, and if you and your partner are not connecting with each other but are finding sexual satisfaction in pornography instead, that can lead to serious consequences.
3. Unable To Stop Watching Porn
The most telling sign of porn addiction is the inability to stop watching it for any meaningful length of time. When was the last time you went through an entire day without watching porn? How did you feel about that? Did you feel like something was missing? When was the last time you went a whole week without it?If you find it difficult or impossible to go through an entire week without watching porn, then it's safe to say that you have an addiction to it. Do not take this addiction lightly. It will eventually interfere with your relationship with your partner, if it hasn't already.
But help is available.
At Pathways Real Life Recovery, our licensed therapists are fully trained and experienced with helping couples just like you improve your relationship and experience the kind of intimacy and closeness you long for. Browse our website today and please contact us with any questions you may have regarding our services.
Author statement:
Michelle Amerman is a licensed therapist and President of Pathways Real Life Recovery. Pathways is a mental health counseling and addiction recovery center in Utah. Her treatment approach is based on 30 years' worth of groundwork, and has been assessed and validated by pioneers in the field of recovery research.
Pathways Real Life Recovery
8706 South 700 East #205
Sandy, UT 84070
801-895-3006
