Pornography is addictive and can lead to negative effects, not only in your relationships, but also on your mental health. For many, pornography, like many other addictions, is a way to self-medicate and can leave people feeling numb and depressed. If you are struggling with pornography and sexual addiction, or know someone who is, here are 4 steps to take to help you reclaim your life.
1. Step out of the darkness.
For those affected by sexual addiction, the first step towards recovery is coming out of hiding. This can be an extremely hard step, as the first step usually is, but just remember that you aren’t alone. Like any addiction, isolation is one of the most common blocks addicts face and the moment you are able to come out of hiding is when you’re able to start developing a network of support. Whether that be a treatment center, support group, therapist or someone you trust, having a safe space to open up is key during your time of healing.
2. Create a plan.
As you begin the healing process, you should formulate a plan of action. This is an excellent long-term exercise where you write down actionable goals that you can commit to and track during your recovery. It’s particularly easy in the beginning of recovery to become discouraged, but establishing a routine can help you use these actions to keep moving forward. This is also why you’ll want to have someone to talk to and encourage you to stay committed to your recovery. Some of the things you can include in your plan is to attend recovery meetings, write in a journal daily, perform a service to others or find a healthy hobby that you enjoy doing.
3. Practice positive self-talk.
While on the road to recovery, you’ll likely experience your share of negative self-talk. However, these negative thoughts will only sabotage and defeat your efforts to recovery. Instead, practice positive self-talk and know that it takes time to heal. In the book You Can Heal Your Life, author Louise L. Hay recommends doing “mirror work.” This is where you look in the mirror and say something positive about yourself.
It may feel silly at first and negative thoughts may try to dissuade you from believing what you’re saying, but the more you practice this, the less silly it will become and the less power your negative thoughts will hold. Another great exercise is to have an affirmation on hand to repeat to yourself throughout the day. For example, “to wish to be well is a part of becoming well” is a quote by Roman philosopher Seneca and an affirmation of commitment to recovery and positive healing.
4. Tend to yourself.
Self-care is important to help you succeed in your recovery. When starting out, choose only one or two rituals from each of the personal, physical and spiritual categories to incorporate into your day. By only doing a couple of things, you’re less likely to get overwhelmed and forget to do them. Some things you can choose from are writing in a journal, taking a community course, exercising for 30 minutes every day, meditation and helping in the community.
There are many things you can do to practice self-care. Remember, recovery takes time and it’s important to be patient. Don’t let your addiction define you. Take back your life today and start taking the steps to heal.
To give you more tips and suggestions, you can check out the ebook, The First Step:
Taking the First Step Toward Recovery. And for additional professional care, click through our directory of treatment services or call 866-606-0182 to help overcome your addiction.
Danielle Adams is a freelance writer who works with Lifestar Therapy. She is committed to helping people practice open communication and build healthy relationships.
