How to Stop Masturbation Addiction

Masturbation is a normal part of sexual expression, which relieves stress. However, just like drugs or alcohol, it can be addicting. Knowing how to stop masturbation addiction helps someone manage its symptoms and eventually reduce the behavior.

In this article, we will talk about the differences between normal and excessive masturbation. We will also explain how to stop masturbation addiction in a safe and healthy way.

Normal vs. Excessive Masturbation 

Many young adults who masturbate at a normal rate do it five to ten times a week. However, how often one masturbates each week varies from person to person. 

For those in their 30s and 40s, the frequency of masturbating drops to two to three times each week. However, for some people, masturbation can become an addiction.

In particular, these people begin developing a compulsive behavior towards it. They begin to prefer masturbating over socializing. These people also cannot stop thinking about masturbating. As a result, these affect their daily lives. 

The exact number of times that determines that one has masturbation addiction is a subjective matter.

Moreover, any addiction is a pathological compulsion. Masturbation addiction, therefore, refers to the continued repetition of masturbation even after it negatively impacts one’s life. 

In general, when most people begin masturbating, they enjoy doing it in a healthy amount. However, as with any pleasurable activity, it becomes easy to masturbate more often. If you masturbate to the point where the deed affects your daily life and mental health, you probably have a masturbation addiction.

How to Stop a Masturbation Addiction 

Masturbation addiction can be treated using the right methods. Here’s how to overcome masturbation addiction in a safe and healthy manner:

1.     Talk to a therapist. 

When you become ready to have a healthy relationship with masturbation or if you want to stop your addiction, reach out to a therapist. As an alternative, you may also talk to your general doctor. They can refer you to a psychologist, counselor, or psychiatrist specializing in sexual health.

To find a local sex therapist, you can visit the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT).

2.     Be honest. 

Masturbation carries a huge stigma. Many cultural, religious, and spiritual traditions see masturbation as a sin or a form of immorality.

However, masturbation is neither bad nor immoral. It is a normal and healthy form of sexual expression. If you feel guilty, ashamed, or upset because you masturbate, tell your therapist about it. Getting to the root of your feelings of guilt helps you overcome them. 

3.     Take your time. 

Treating addiction does not happen overnight. Therapy is also not a one-stop shop. One visit is the first step to sobriety. However, you must constantly see your therapist for weeks or months. 

As you continue to talk, you will feel more comfortable with your therapist. This can help you become more transparent about your behaviors and feelings.

4.     Wear clothes at night. 

Clothes provide a physical barrier between you and your genitals. Hence, wearing underwear and clothes at night can help decrease your behavior. Even if you touch yourself, an extra layer of clothing can reduce the sensation.

5.     Say no to porn. 

Pornography plays a huge role in masturbation addiction. It is a mental driving agent for those who excessively masturbate. This mentally impacts a person in a way that it shapes the way they act and think in society as a whole. 

So, avoid pornographic images, videos, and websites as much as you can. 

6.     Socialize a lot. 

Socializing with people keeps your mind diverted and focused. If you want to know how to stop your masturbation addiction, you must socialize with your friends and family. You can also join a class or enroll at the gym to meet people and socialize with them. 

7.     Do something new.

Having a healthy interest or hobby diverts your mind. This helps you stop masturbation addiction.

Think about picking up a new hobby that can be an alternative to masturbating. Find activities that you enjoy and stick to them. These include exercise, meditation, mindfulness, yoga, traveling, and pottery. 

You may also begin to work on your personal goals. Tell yourself that you will achieve them by writing them down. Doing so helps put your energy on other things and stops you from thinking about masturbating.

Conclusion 

Masturbation is a healthy, normal activity. For some people, however, it can become an addiction that interferes with their daily lives. 

If this is happening to you or your loved one, learn how to stop masturbation addiction. Find the help you need to feel more fulfilled and have better sexual health. 

Do not feel bad if the process becomes difficult. Remember, you can always reach out to someone for help. The right support system, treatment, and a sobriety app like I Am Sober can also help.