7 Steps to Stop Watching Porn
Watching porn can be a fine and healthy activity when done appropriately and in moderation. However, it becomes a problem when it starts negatively affecting other aspects of your life, such as your relationships, self-esteem, productivity, or mental health. If you’re looking to stop watching porn, there are effective techniques that can help. Whether you’re dealing with an addiction or simply feeling its negative effects, change is possible.
The 7 Steps to Take to Stop Watching Porn
To begin your journey toward recovery, follow these structured steps:
- Explore Why You Want to Quit
- Build a Recovery Environment
- Plan Ahead for Triggers
- Focus on a Healthy Lifestyle
- Seek Professional Support
- Nurture Your Sex Life
- Be Okay With Setbacks
Practical Tools and Strategies
Fortunately, there are effective ways to quit porn and regain control. You can take practical steps like installing a porn blocker to reduce temptation and joining a 12-step group for structured support. Prioritizing your values—such as maintaining meaningful relationships or focusing on personal growth—can also help you stay motivated. Most importantly, how you view yourself may be the strongest tool you have to quit for good. Practicing self-compassion can reinforce your belief in your ability to make changes.
Professional Support and Resources
Is porn addiction negatively impacting your life and relationships? A therapist can help you break unhealthy habits and form healthier ones. BetterHelp has over 30,000 licensed therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. You may also benefit from Therapy Worksheets, including CBT Worksheets, Anxiety Worksheets, and Relationship Worksheets.
Our Experts and Recovery Resources
The following table summarizes the professional expertise and resources available to assist with behavioral addictions and recovery:
| Resource/Expert | Specialization and Focus |
|---|---|
| Nicole | Crisis intervention, family therapy, and behavior analysis; sees individuals, couples, and families. |
| Kristen Fuller, MD | Physician focusing on mood disorders, substance use disorder, and reducing mental health stigma. |
| Mobile Software | Best Mental Health Apps and Addiction Recovery Apps for structured support. |
| Specialized Support | Resources for Sex Addiction, Porn Addiction, and Addiction Recovery. |
By utilizing these resources and focusing on a healthy lifestyle, you can effectively manage triggers and work toward long-term change.