It can feel overwhelming when you realise that porn might be a problem in your life. You’re not alone though, and this is a journey worth starting, so here are some tips on how to take those first steps towards freedom. (If you’re here because you want to help someone you care about, you might find this helpful too)
Ok, so you’ve realised that porn has more control over you than you have over it – you’ve tried to quit but can’t. Firstly we want to assure you that there is no shame in admitting that you’re struggling and you need some help. In fact, we think that facing up to that fact by reading this blog is a great first step, so well done!
We also want you to know that you’re not alone. We estimate that over 1 in 10 people believe they’re addicted to porn in the UK. That’s at least 6 million people! Feel less alone yet?
Start Sharing
One of the hardest things to do when facing up to a porn problem can be to tell someone. But, scary as it is to take that step, the majority of people find that it’s incredibly freeing and countless people who have found freedom from porn say that telling someone was a massive turning point in their recovery journey. We’d love to encourage you to take that first step today- reach out to someone you trust and let them know you want to talk. One step at a time- you’ve got this!
We would advocate for confiding in someone as the ideal first step wherever possible- you’ll need support on this journey! But if you’re simply not ready, check out Ctrl-Alt-Del instead. It’s an on-demand, free resource that you can work through in your own time, in your own home.
Start Protecting Yourself
For most people, quitting porn isn’t something that happens overnight. Habits take time to form, and they take time to break too. There are some really practical things you can do to help yourself out though, so that the desire to act out in the heat of the moment doesn’t always win.
One of these is to install filters. If your willpower isn’t proving enough to get you through this tough season, give yourself some back up by using software that blocks explicit content. We recommend Covenant Eyes or Fortify. Both of these resources are best used in partnership with someone you trust, who can support you on your journey.
Start Educating Yourself
It’s tough to fight an invisible enemy. By educating yourself so that you understand exactly what you’re consuming and how it impacts you and the world around you, you give yourself a fighting chance to change your mindset towards it.
You can find some resources to help you get started here
Last Top Tip!
Make a commitment- however small. Start with a goal of a few days porn free, and keep going if you make it through!
If you’re ready to take a bigger step towards freedom, check out our Click to Kick programme, where you can find community, education and support.