Download FREE Practo app
Get ₹200 HealthCash
Therapy for masturbation and porn
As the title suggest, I am seeking counselling to better control my dependency on porn and masturbation. Over the past couple of years i have struggled with this habit and since this topic is practically a taboo in India, i am looking for a safe space where i can express my feelings and seek help. I have tried controlling on my own but i have found myself in the same spot after couple of days. My intent is to have an emotional support, someone who can hold me accountable so i can break this habit of mine. i will get married soon and i wish to fix it before that happens for a healthy relationship with my partner.
Answers (11)
Get your queries answered instantly with Care AI FREE
20000+ health queries resolved in last month
Hi
Next Steps
1. RAIN technique: Recognize the urge, Allow it to exist without acting, Investigate what it feels like in the body (racing heart, tight chest?), and Non-identify—remind yourself it’s just a passing wave, not “you.” This disrupts the instant gratification chase
2. practice grounding and breathing exercise
3 flow activities (drumming, model making, nature photography)
Health Tips
hi
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Didn't find the answer you are looking for?
Talk to experienced doctor online and get your health questions answered in just 5 minutes.
+118
It needs to be treated asap otherwise it may get complicated.
It can be treated well with counseling sessions and homeopathic medicine effectively.
It needs to be treated in a holistic approach for complete recovery.
Homeopathic medicine would be a good solution for your concern.
You need an expert Psychologist who is a good homeopathic physician.
Next Steps
I have been working as a Homeopathic Psychiatrist and Counseling Psychologist for the last 17 years. You can contact me through an online appointment for further assistance
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Hi, Consult a psychologist
Answered
Flag this answer
0/1 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Acknowledging your struggle and seeking support is a courageous first step. Many people face similar challenges, and breaking this cycle is possible with the right approach. Your concern about its impact on your future relationship is valid, and addressing it now will lead to a healthier emotional and intimate connection.
Next Steps
Therapy can help identify triggers and underlying emotional needs driving this habit. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques can support impulse control. Setting realistic goals and accountability with a therapist will create a structured approach to change.
Health Tips
Replace the habit with healthy alternatives like physical activity or creative hobbies. Journal your thoughts and emotions to recognize patterns. Build open communication with your future partner for mutual understanding. You deserve a space where you feel safe to explore this without judgment. Consider professional guidance through Soul Savera by Sanjana Purdhani to work on emotional regulation and self-awareness. Seeking help isnât about fixing yourselfâitâs about growing into the best version of you
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Kindly consult psychotherapist
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Addressing dependency on pornography and masturbation requires a compassionate, non-judgmental approach. Here’s a structured guide to help navigate this challenge:
1. **Acknowledge and Normalize**
- **Common Experience**: Many people struggle with these behaviors, and seeking help is a courageous step.
- **No Shame**: Dependency often stems from natural human drives, stress, loneliness, or curiosity—not moral failure.
2. **Assess the Impact**
- **Signs of Concern**: Ask yourself if the behavior:
- Interferes with daily responsibilities, work, or relationships.
- Causes guilt, shame, or emotional distress.
- Feels uncontrollable despite negative consequences.
Next Steps
3. **Practical Strategies**
- **Set Realistic Goals**: Gradually reduce frequency rather than aiming for abrupt abstinence (unless desired).
- **Identify Triggers**: Note situations, emotions, or times of day that prompt urges (e.g., boredom, stress, loneliness).
- **Replace Habits**: Engage in alternatives like exercise, hobbies, socializing, or mindfulness when urges arise.
- **Limit Access**: Use apps or tools (e.g., website blockers) to reduce exposure to triggers.
- **Mindfulness Techniques**: Practice grounding exercises (e.g., deep breathing) to manage cravings.
4. **Address Underlying Causes**
- Explore emotional or psychological factors (e.g., anxiety, depression, trauma) that may drive dependency.
- Build healthy coping mechanisms for stress or loneliness (e.g., therapy, journaling, creative outlets).
Health Tips
5. **Seek Professional Support**
- **Therapy**: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is effective for behavioral patterns. Sex therapists or addiction specialists can offer tailored strategies.
Answered
Flag this answer
1/1 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Hi
You’re taking a strong and responsible step by seeking help for porn and masturbation dependency, especially before marriage. This habit persists due to dopamine dependency, emotional triggers (stress, boredom, loneliness), and compulsive behavior. The guilt-shame cycle further reinforces it, making it harder to quit.
Therapy can help by identifying emotional triggers, rewiring your brain, providing accountability, and improving intimacy readiness. Start by reducing triggers, replacing urges with productive activities, and delaying the habit to weaken its grip. You don’t have to face this alone—therapy provides the right guidance and support. If you want to take online therapy sessions, connect with me on nine two six six seven two six zero six five.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Ms. Monisha Preetha
Psychotherapist
5 yrs exp
Bangalore
Overcoming dependency on pornography and masturbation isnât just about willpowerâit involves understanding the emotional and psychological triggers behind the habit. Often, it is linked to stress, anxiety, loneliness, or even subconscious coping mechanisms.
Next Steps
Since youâve already attempted to manage it on your own but find yourself returning to the cycle, professional guidance can offer structured support and accountability. If you're looking for personalized support, Iâd be happy to help you navigate this journey. Feel free to reach out, and we can discuss ways to work through this together in a way that suits your comfort and pace.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Ms. Smriti
Counselling Psychologist
18 yrs exp
Bangalore
Connect with psychologist
Next Steps
consult
Health Tips
counseling
Answered
Flag this answer
3/3 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Mr. Gunjan Maithil
Psychologist
13 yrs exp
Bangalore
Hi...Masturbation or watching porn is normal as long as it is not hampering your daily life functioning. Now understand this, why do you engane in porn and masturbation is the real issue. You don't need to focus on correcting this behavior, rather you need to focus on regulating a more healthy lifestyle which include timely and heathy sleep, meals, exercise and breathing/meditation. Focus on addressing the core cognitive processes that lead to this behavior. Focus on identifying triggers and addressing the more deeper issues from which you are subconsciously trying to withdrew your attention from and in this process, engaging yourself in derieving short term, immediate pleasure which doesn't require much of an effort. Relationship requires effort, porn/ masturbation doesn't.
Next Steps
Consult a Psychologist.
CBT along with Psycho-sexual Guidance and Pre-marital Counselling is required.
Health Tips
Mr. Gunjan Maithil
Senior Psychologist
Cell: nine six seven one three zero three one three four
Website: https://gunjanmaithil.wixsite.com/therapy
App: http://wix.to/fechb08?ref=cl
Answered
Flag this answer
1/1 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Ms. Pooja Gupta
Psychologist
9 yrs exp
Delhi
Hi,
Itâs commendable that youâre seeking counseling to address your dependency on pornography and masturbation. Acknowledging the struggle is the first step toward change, and itâs understandable that discussing such topics can be challenging, especially in cultures where they are considered taboo. Finding a safe space where you can openly express your feelings and concerns is vital for your journey. Itâs important to have emotional support and accountability, as this can significantly aid in breaking the habit. Since youâre looking to approach this before your upcoming marriage, focusing on your personal growth will not only benefit you but also contribute to a healthier relationship with your partner. Seeking the guidance of a professional counselor can provide you with the tools and strategies necessary to manage and eventually overcome this dependency. Remember, youâre not alone in this and reaching out for help is a strong and positive step forward.
Next Steps
consult
Health Tips
seek help
Answered
Flag this answer
1/2 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Articles you may like
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
The question asked on this page is a free question. You can ask a free health question by downloading the Practo app.
Articles you may like
Tell us what's troubling you
Tell us what's troubling you
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.