ADHD and Porn Addiction

If you’re someone who has ADHD and struggles with excessively viewing pornography, you might wonder if there’s a link between the two. Porn addiction can occur in some people with ADHD. This compulsive habit involves all forms of pornography and most sexual acts. 

Porn addiction affects both men and women of all ages. However, it can trigger individuals with ADHD because of the way their brains are developed. They thrive on pleasure, rewards, and stimuli to help them overcome stress and challenges.  

Those with a porn addiction might feel that their life revolves around porn. You might notice that your life is out of control because of your porn addiction. 

If you are someone who struggles with ADHD and has compulsive porn habits, you might want to know more about the relationship between the two. When you are aware of the source of your urges, you can recover and heal from your porn addiction. 

ADHD and addictions

There is a link between ADHD and addiction. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder that takes place in childhood and carries into adulthood. 

The American Psychiatric Association identified three types of ADHD, while clinicians claim there are as many as seven. Everyone is different. Doctors diagnose a patient based on his or her symptoms. 

Symptoms of ADHD include the inability to sit still, difficulty paying attention, boredom with mundane tasks, and struggle to control impulsive behaviors. Both clinicians and researchers found that individuals with ADHD are more likely to abuse alcohol and drugs. 

Alcoholic adults are up to 10 times more likely to suffer from ADHD than those who don’t have alcoholism. However, more research is needed to determine the link between ADHD and addiction. 

Researchers are looking for answers about what causes individuals with ADHD to develop an addiction. Research has shown that ADHD is a result of a reduction in the neurotransmitter dopamine.

Dopamine is a chemical in the brain that offers temporary pleasure. It can also play a role in response to an impulsive habit or action. One theory is that individuals with ADHD might use drugs and alcohol to self-medicate.

Other people with ADHD are more likely to have behavioral addictions and have an impulsive lifestyle. As a result, some individuals might struggle with porn addiction. 

Is there a connection between ADHD and porn addiction

People with ADHD struggle with hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Pornography is another way that individuals with ADHD might use to self-medicate. The rise of online porn and compulsive sexual behavior allows them to cope with overwhelming feelings and stressors. 

Momentarily, pornography can decrease feelings of anxiety and depression. A porn addiction develops when it affects every aspect of a person’s life. Porn addiction involves the act of viewing, making, downloading, or sharing pornography. 

The addiction itself is different from pornography use, which offers pleasure or reward for boredom, desire, or impulsivity. Research has shown that individuals with a high rate of ADHD are more likely to suffer from compulsive sexual behavior. Men with ADHD who have a porn addiction may also struggle with establishing and maintaining relationships. 

Treating ADHD and porn addiction

It’s possible to overcome ADHD and porn addiction. However, it’s not something that can be done on your own. 

The right treatment can help you manage your ADHD symptoms. Treatment might include a combination of medication and therapy. 

Medications for ADHD include central nervous system stimulations and non-stimulant medications. Therapy options include behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychotherapy. 

Treatment for porn addiction is similar and might also involve lifestyle changes and relationship counseling. However, therapists have varying views on pornography -- some believe treatment isn’t necessary while others place the blame on pornography.

You should seek treatment from someone who holds similar views as you, discovers underlying issues, and offers evidence-based treatment strategies. This winning combination allows you to work on your relationships and maintain control over your porn use. 

Online treatment for ADHD and porn addiction is a convenient option if you struggle to manage your ADHD and pornography use. An online therapist can help you develop healthy coping skills and become aware of your triggers or stressors. You’ll also learn the underlying reasons for your porn addiction. 

Birches Health can connect you with a specialized pornography provider in less than 24 hours. You’ll receive a critical evaluation that’s free and conditional. 

You don’t have to struggle with your ADHD symptoms on your own. It’s possible to break free from your porn addiction. Schedule a free consultation to manage your ADHD symptoms and porn addiction. 

Resources:

Treatment Strategies for Co-Occurring ADHD and Substance Use Disorders

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Relation to Addictive Behaviors: A Moderated-Mediation Analysis of Personality-Risk Factors and Sex

Types of ADHD

Sexual development in ADHD and internet pornography consumption

The contribution of ADHD and attachment difficulties to online pornography use among students

ADHD Treatment: What Are the Options?

Porn addiction: Signs, causes, and treatment