How is porn addiction similar to drug addiction?

REDMINUTE No. 4

Dr William Struthers answers the question “How is porn addiction similar to drug addiction?”

The brain has natural pathways which are involved in reinforcement and pleasure which are activated through natural drivers like eating, drinking and sex. Neurologically, porn really hijacks this natural system in the same way that drugs do, by tricking the brain into thinking that it is getting food, drink or sex.

Behaviourally, porn might not cause someone to spiral out of control as quickly as some other drugs of addiction like cocaine or meth. A porn user limps along, keeping their struggle in secret for longer, but over time it disrupts every aspect of their life.

If porn is disrupting your life, there is help available, visit our help section to get connected and find out more.

About the Author: Luke Gibbons

Luke Gibbons is a volunteer with Guilty Pleasure. Luke's struggle with pornography and sex chatting eventually led him to open up to two friends who supported him in seeking professional help and going to rehab, beginning his recovery journey. Luke knows first hand how avoiding this topic and keeping a struggle with porn in the dark can disrupt friendships and destroy someone's character, but he also knows the hope and restoration that comes withe a life free from porn. You can read more of Luke's story right here.

One Comment

"Porn Addiction is a Myth": The Debate Continues September 26, 2014 at 11:25 pm - Reply

[…] that make drugs addictive. Drugs can be addictive because they “trick” the brain, says Dr. William Struthers. “The only reason there are any drugs of addiction at all is because those drugs activate the […]

How is porn addiction similar to drug addiction?