PornHub Addict? Help is available for Porn Addiction
Published:
Sep 28, 2024
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06:35 p.m.
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Porn addiction happens when you have an overwhelming urge to look at pornographic material despite not wanting to. It can cause unrealistic expectations about sex, relationships, and bodies. You might realize that you're more violent in the bedroom, or you take part in risky casual encounters.
Some individuals who struggle with porn addiction visit adult websites such as PornHub. In January 2024, the adult website amassed over 11.4 billion mobile visits alone. That doesn't include the 500 million desktop visitors. One could become a PornHub addict due to the allure of the website.
It's not just PornHub that's addicting. Pornography triggers the brain's reward system. Whenever you have an orgasm, the body releases endorphins and dopamine in the brain. This leads to feelings of pleasure, similar to someone who uses drugs and alcohol.
What is PornHub? How popular is it?
PornHub became the most popular adult website in the United States. It’s so popular that it gets more visits than Netflix or TikTok. Aylo is a Canadian adult entertainment company that owns the video-sharing website. In August 2024, PornHub was the 16th most-visited website. This website makes it easy for visitors to search for adult content, including hardcore pornography and VR porn.
PornHub is free to use, but users can also purchase memberships. The website has became the largest supplier of video-sharing pornography. It likens itself to "YouTube for hardcore porn." The website also allows independent cam girls, adult video stars, and sex workers to upload their graphic material, create fan clubs, and charge premium prices, similar to platforms like OnlyFans.
What makes PornHub addictive?
Watching PornHub can lead to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that contributes to those good feelings. The brain will become dependent on the euphoric feelings. The individual will feel they must watch pornography to get those feelings back.
Several factors can contribute to PornHub addiction. The leading causes are emotional and mental, with physical factors. Pornography can offer an escape from daily stress and other problems. Psychological factors, such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, can also contribute to porn addiction.
Warning signs of PornHub Addiction
PornHub addiction is similar to pornography addiction. It becomes a compulsive problem when the habit interferes with an individual's daily life, work, responsibilities, and relationships. This behavioral addiction can become a serious problem if left untreated.
Common warning signs of pornography addiction include:
Using pornography as a coping mechanism for life stressors or mental health issues
Dissatisfaction with sex and relationships
Problems with intimacy and relationships
An increased amount of money spent on PornHub
Feelings of shame and guilt after watching pornography
Continuing porn use despite attempts to cut back or quit
Ignoring responsibilities and social events to watch pornography
What resources are available for PornHub addiction?
Assessments
PornHub addiction is difficult for some individuals to admit to. Some experts and doctors don't take this form of addiction seriously. Pornography addiction also isn't recognized by the DSM-5.
An assessment can help an individual determine if they have a problem with pornography. The questions provide guidelines to pinpoint the common signs of porn addiction. It covers all forms of the behavioral addiction, not just the PornHub aspect.
Birches Health offers a self-assessment for individuals who struggle with pornography addiction. Once they receive a formal diagnosis, they will work with a licensed clinician who's trained in this addiction. Virtual treatment allows them to receive the therapy they need confidentially.
Take a free Porn Addiction self-assessment test online now!
Educational Materials
Educational materials help individuals learn about porn addiction and the dangers of PornHub. Such resources could also motivate individuals to quit their porn addiction. Birches Health offers informational materials and resources on pornography addiction.
Here are some of the best guides:
Types of Treatment
The most common form of treatment for PornHub addiction includes a combination of therapy, medication, and self-help support groups. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals find the solution to their problems. Individuals uncover harmful beliefs and replace them with healthier, positive ones.
Psychotherapy is another type of counseling, known as talk therapy. This helps the individual understand the root cause of their porn addiction. Counseling might also include family therapy and relationship counseling. Psychotherapy could treat co-occurring mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression.
Self-help support groups offer encouragement and support. Individuals learn from each other's experiences and offer motivation. Porn Addicts Anonymous and Sex Addicts Anonymous are two examples of support groups for porn addiction.
Medication might help treat any co-occurring mental health disorders. PornHub addiction can be linked to depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, or low self-esteem.
Treatment Providers
Some treatment centers offer both inpatient and outpatient programs for PornHub addiction. Individuals can withdraw from online pornographic material in a structured environment. Treatment providers will offer a combination of psychotherapy, support groups, and medication in a controlled setting.
Individuals will also receive treatment for any co-occurring mental health conditions. Individuals who struggle with both PornHub addiction and substance abuse disorder might enter a multi-interventional program. Programs could last from as little as 30 days to as long as 90 days.
Birches Health also offers virtual treatment for porn addiction. This is beneficial for those who want to learn healthy habits and receive care in the comfort of their own home.
Treatment for porn addiction can involve one of the following steps with Birches Health:
You can also call 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to connect with the Birches team right away.
Block PornHub Access
Want to quit your PornHub addiction? Are you worried about your kids accessing the website? Excessive pornographic content can cause serious mental health issues. Thankfully, you're able to block PornHub and other adult websites on your computer or phone.
Content Screening Router: Consider setting up a content screening router. This allows you to set up age-appropriate filters for your kids. You'll also have more control over who visits adult websites.
DNS Filtering: Internet service providers allow you to block DNS requests. When you adjust your DNS settings, you can block access to PornHub and other adult websites.
Parental Control Software: Parental control software can prevent access to adult websites. Programs like Bark, BlockerX, and Covenant Eyes allow you to set up controls and limit your access to the internet. It's ideal for blocking access to PornHub.
SafeSearch Content Filters: Bing, Google, and Yahoo search engines all have SafeSearch Filters. This feature removes explicit content from search results. Websites like PornHub are less likely to pop up when you do an internet search.
PornHub Addiction treatment process explained
PornHub is a complex psychological problem that requires a multifaceted approach. The individual would have to admit they have a problem. From there, they will undergo an assessment. A doctor or mental health professional will determine the severity of the addiction, including any co-occurring mental health problems.
The individual will receive educational resources on PornHub addiction and how it changes the brain. This could show them the triggers behind their action. They will schedule therapy sessions with a mental health professional.
Medication can help treat any co-occurring disorders or impulsive behaviors. The individual must commit themselves to the treatment plan. They should also have a solid support system, whether that includes friends, family, or a support group. This approach allows individuals to live a healthy life free from PornHub addiction.
Follow-up sessions can help with relapse and prevention. The clinician might make adjustments to the individual's treatment plan. Prevention might include strategies to manage stress or triggers. Ongoing support via support talks or talk therapy can also help with relapse.
Sources:
Pornhub.com global traffic by device 2024 | Statista
Turns out Pornhub gets more visitors per month than Netflix, and I'm looking at you
Neuroscience of Internet Pornography Addiction: A Review and Update - PMC
Pornography Addiction: Why Is Pornography Addictive? - WebMD
