It’s no secret (or surprise) that men often have a higher sex drive than women. Studies show that other hormones and psychological factors also play a role in why men are easier to arouse and crave sexual interaction more often.

In an effort to bridge this gap, 95% of men turn to internet porn to satisfy their sexual appetite. While this isn’t unhealthy in moderation, casual viewing can quickly turn to porn addiction. And it does for up to 10% of viewers.

It can be difficult for men to control their porn habit while still satisfying themselves sexually — but it’s not impossible.

Keep reading to uncover useful tips for men looking to kick their porn habit.

Why Men Watch Porn

Before we get into how men can stop watching porn, let’s discuss why they watch it in the first place. The more you understand what drives men’s sexual desire, the easier it is to find useful tools to help quit.

The number one reason men watch porn is for sexual stimulation and satisfaction. Because men have a higher sex drive than women, many are left feeling sexually frustrated. Watching porn and masturbating is often easier, more convenient, and a “quick fix” for their sexual needs.

Porn also allows men to explore their sexual fantasies and desires without restraint. Not all women are into threesomes, bondage, or spanking. Through pornographic content, men can experiment with their taboo fetishes without putting unnecessary pressure on their partners. For some men, porn prevents them from cheating. When sex with their partner becomes boring or unsatisfying, porn offers an alternative sexual outlet that doesn’t involve being unfaithful.

Stress relief is another reason men watch porn. Many men use porn as a mood booster. Not only does viewing porn put most guys in a better mood but achieving orgasm is an instant stress reliever. It can also provide emotional comfort and is predictable in a world of chaos and uncertainty.

Tips for Kicking Your Porn Habit

Now that you have a better understanding of what drives men’s need to watch porn, let’s discuss options for stopping.

#1: Get to the Bottom of the Issue

While we covered a few reasons why men watch porn, there’s usually a very specific cause of porn addiction. Some men are trying to avoid other issues like commitment, financial trouble, lack of intimacy, or even erectile dysfunction (ED).

The first step in quitting is determining what you’re using porn to either avoid or substitute. Try finishing this sentence, “I’m watching porn to avoid feeling…”. When you pinpoint what’s driving your porn habit, you can address this underlying issue and get one step closer to living a porn-free life. Another method is identifying your triggers. By noticing when the urge to watch porn hits, you can figure out what’s actually driving your addiction.

#2: Find Alternative Forms of Stress Relief

It’s scientifically proven that having an orgasm acts as stress relief and can increase feelings of happiness and relaxation. Men who use porn to elevate their mood need to find new and creative ways to reduce their stress that don’t involve pornography.

Exercise and other physical activity is a popular way to not only reduce stress but also boost endorphins, leaving you feeling happy, positive, and energized. Adopt a new exercise regime or get outside and get active. Hiking, swimming, and biking are all great forms of exercise. You can also join a local sports team like soccer or softball. Not only will getting active help to replace your porn habit, but you’ll also experience a boost in confidence and overall well-being.

#3: Take Precautions

Sometimes, you can’t trust yourself to resist urges and temptations. Putting safety blockers on your computer or smartphone can give you an added layer of protection and support. In the age of the Internet, there are countless porn blocker apps and programs that make it more difficult to reach and view explicit websites and content.

Similar to an alcoholic not keeping booze in the house, porn addicts should make pornographic content less accessible. While porn-blockers won’t make it impossible for addicts to get their hands (and eyes) on explicit content, it will make it more difficult. Now, you have to go out of your way to access these materials, giving yourself more time to stop and think about your decision.

#4: Find a Support Group

There’s power in numbers, which is why many addicts turn to support groups for help overcoming dangerous habits. Porn addiction for men is no different. Joining an in-person or online community designed to help members overcome porn addiction can put you on the path to success.

Depending on your preference and comfort level, you can choose from an online or in-person program. While in-person support groups offer the benefit of accountability, many people prefer anonymity. Porn addicts are often ashamed and embarrassed by their habit, which is why some men prefer online program options.

Stop Together is an online therapy program that offers not only community support but resources and tools for overcoming porn addiction in the comfort and privacy of your own home. By sharing your porn habits, tendencies, and reasons for viewing with others, you learn self-awareness, social skills, and the ability to accept criticism and advice.

#5: Broaden Your Sexual Horizons

If you’re a man who turns to porn for sexual stimulation, it might be time to broaden your sexual horizons. There are countless other, healthier, alternatives for sexual arousal that don’t include porn.

Over time, men can become too accustomed to visual sexual stimulation offered by pornographic videos, films, and images. Lack of imagination can take its toll not only on your sexual creativity but also on your ability to achieve orgasm during in-person sex acts.

The broader your sexual imagination is, the more engaging and enriching the experience will be. As you wean yourself off of porn, start reading or listening to erotica. Learn how to give a sensual massage and take notice of other things around you that turn you on or excite you. You might find sexual stimulation in the unlikeliest of places.

Stop Watching Porn and Take Back Your Life

Are you a man who enjoys watching porn? While this isn’t uncommon, or even unhealthy, too much of anything can have negative consequences and impacts on your life. The good news is, it’s possible to cut back on how often and how much porn you view to gain a healthier life balance.

Adopting a new exercise routine and finding alternative ways to relieve stress and enjoy sexual satisfaction are just a few ways to help reduce how often you view pornography and prevent your habit from turning into an addiction.