Porn
Porn Addiction
Porn addiction, a subset of sex addiction, is not officially classified by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-V (DSM-5). However, done in excess it can lead to serious consequences in many aspects of a person’s life.
Considered a process or behavioural addiction, these compulsive behavioural patterns are repeatedly engaged in despite the negative impact. It usually escalates over time in a way that resembles a substance use disorder.
Signs and Symptoms
> Excessive viewing of pornography
> Watching pornography interferes with normal daily behaviour or responsibilities.
> More time is spent watching pornography, or searching for more stimulating types of pornography in order to get aroused.
> A feeling of withdrawal or sense of emotional distressed when porn use is stopped.
> Continued use of porn despite serious consequences e.g. loss of relationships, employment, etc.
> Compulsive masturbating.
> Sexual dysfunction (e.g. impotence, premature ejaculation).
> Use of pornography negatively effects your relationships, for example less likely to become aroused by your partner or sexual behaviour between you and your partner changes (e.g. become more aggressive, domineering, or emotionally disconnected.)
> Using pornography to alter your mood or avoid unpleasant feelings.
Methods of Use
Adverse Effects
Physical Effects of Porn Addiction
> Premature ejaculation
> Impotence
Psychological Effects of Porn Addiction
> Guilt and shame.
> Tendency towards other impulsive behaviours.
> Depression, anxiety, or other co-occurring psychological disorders.
> Ambivalence about stopping, or cycles of stopping/restarting.
> Preoccupation with sexual thoughts throughout the day.
Social Effects of Porn Addiction
> Decline in romantic or sexual interactions with partner, such as:
> Inability to become aroused.
> Emotional detachment.
> Increased need for more aggression or dominance.
> Not wanting to seek personal (real life) sexual contact, or diminished patience for sexual contact.
Overdose Potential
Withdrawal
Treatment
> Self-help organizations – Talking with others who also have a disorder have been proven to be very effective.
> Therapy – Behaviour therapy or cognitive behaviour therapy is a proven evidence based therapy teaching skills to reduce the urges. Find a licensed practitioner.
> Medications – Studies suggest that some medication may be effective for the treatment of gambling addiction. Speak to a psychiatrist specialised in addiction treatment for an evaluation and recommendations.
> Treatment programs – Many in-treatment and outpatient programs can assist with a gambling disorder.
Why choose PRC Recovery?
We are a registered treatment centre specialising in the treatment of addictive disorders. Our individualised approach to treating addiction is based on international standards and includes the many proven modalities in the treatment of addiction.
Key focus areas for an effective program:
> Family involvement – family participation in the treatment of any addiction is vital.
> Individualised approach – underlying issues prolonging any addiction is based on the individual and therefore individual treatment plans are an important component to effective treatment of addiction by a qualified professional counsellor.
> 12 step program – Twelve step programs have proven highly effective in the treatment of addiction and starts forming the solid foundation in early recovery. It is also used as the platform to the introduction of self-help organisations, forming part of the aftercare.
> Aftercare – Stopping the addiction is only the foundation phase in the treatment of addiction. A well thought-out aftercare plan is crucial to sustain long-term recovery.