Alex's Answer

Hi there and welcome to Ask Alex. 

We understand it can be difficult to reach out to talk about what’s going on for you so thanks for taking the first step. 

You are saying that you feel like your addicted to porn and you want to stop as you are relying on it for happiness, is that right? 

It’s important to remember that porn is not always a true picture of real-life relationships and sex.  The people in pornographic films aren’t meant to look real and you should not expect to look like them.  You can read more on this point here: www.childline.ie/the-truth-about-online-pornography/   

You say that you feel you are addicted to porn.  We believe an addiction to be a behaviour that becomes hard to control, even though there are often negative consequences.  If you have a look at following websites and articles www.childline.ie/how-i-feel/ and www.spunout.ie/mental-health/getting-help/problem-with-porn – you can find out more information and advice on how to recognise whether you have an addiction to pornography. If you feel you are addicted, we understand that this must be a really difficult feeling to manage and can have a great impact on your life.  

It sounds like you are saying that you rely on watching porn for happiness.  What other hobbies and interests do you have?  Maybe you could think about increasing your time in other activities or spending time with friends?  You could also start by setting yourself a goal of reducing the length of time/the amount of time you watch porn.   

Have you been able to speak to anyone you trust about how you are feeling?  We understand that this can be a difficult thing to do and want you to remember that we are always here to listen.  Childline is free, confidential and non-judgemental, and we would love to hear about what’s going on for you.  You can contact us by free phone (1800 66 66 66) or online chat at www.childline.ie (just click on the orange Live Chat tab and send ‘hi’) 

Take care of yourself,

Alex