Pornography Addiction Recovery
Reclaim your brain, your time, and your relationships. Track your porn-free journey to authentic connection.
Understanding Pornography Addiction
Compulsive pornography use is a behavioral addiction where individuals struggle to control their consumption despite negative consequences. High-speed internet pornography can alter brain reward pathways similarly to drugs, leading to tolerance, escalation, and withdrawal-like symptoms.
Signs of Pornography Addiction
Compulsive pornography use may be a problem if you experience:
Loss of Control
Unable to stop viewing despite wanting to quit
Escalation
Needing more extreme content to achieve arousal
Excessive Time Spent
Hours lost to viewing pornography
Neglecting Responsibilities
Viewing at work, school, or during important activities
Relationship Problems
Decreased intimacy or hiding use from partners
Withdrawal Symptoms
Irritability, anxiety, or restlessness when not viewing
Using as Coping Mechanism
Turning to pornography to deal with stress or negative emotions
Continued Use Despite Consequences
Viewing despite relationship damage or personal distress
Effects of Pornography Addiction
Compulsive pornography use can affect mental health, relationships, and brain function.
Short-Term Effects
- Decreased productivity
- Sleep disruption
- Shame and guilt
- Reduced motivation
- Social withdrawal
- Difficulty with real-world arousal
Long-Term Effects
- Erectile dysfunction in young men
- Altered brain reward sensitivity
- Relationship and intimacy problems
- Depression and anxiety
- Distorted views of sexuality
- Escalation to problematic content
- Self-esteem issues
Your Porn-Free Journey
Recovery from pornography addiction restores natural sexuality and deeper relationships. Here's how Sobrius helps:
Track Porn-Free Days
Watch your streak grow and feel your brain rewiring. Many report benefits within 30-90 days.
Monitor Urges and Triggers
Daily check-ins help identify patterns—when urges are strongest and what triggers them.
Access Crisis Support
When urges feel overwhelming, access breathing exercises and grounding techniques.
Track Brain Rebooting
Many report increased energy, focus, and real-world attraction as the brain heals.
Find Community
Connect anonymously with others on the same journey. You're not alone in this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pornography really addictive?
Yes. While not in the DSM-5, compulsive sexual behavior disorder (including pornography) is recognized by the WHO. Brain imaging shows pornography activates the same reward circuits as drugs, and many experience tolerance, withdrawal, and loss of control.
What is a "reboot"?
A reboot refers to abstaining from pornography (and often masturbation) to allow the brain's reward system to return to normal sensitivity. Most report significant improvements in 30-90 days, though full recovery may take longer.
Will quitting porn improve my relationships?
Many report improved intimacy, attraction to real partners, better emotional connection, and resolution of erectile dysfunction after quitting pornography. Recovery often leads to more authentic sexuality.
How do I handle urges during recovery?
Strategies include identifying triggers, finding alternative activities, using crisis tools (like those in Sobrius), exercising, cold showers, and connecting with support communities. Most urges pass within 15-30 minutes.
Recovery Resources
Professional support and community resources for your recovery journey.
SAMHSA Helpline
Behavioral addiction referrals
Ready to Start Your Recovery?
Join thousands of people using Sobrius to track their pornography recovery. Free forever, with optional premium features.