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.