Pornography addiction
This page covers the definitions of pornography addiction, as well as the support and resources available to you.
What is pornography addiction?
Pornography addiction is an addictive behaviour defined by compulsive access and viewing of pornographic material. This includes both physical and internet pornography.
Problematic pornography viewing can involve excessive viewing or accessing pornography despite any negative consequences on your personal life. Viewing pornography to avoid negative emotions, but feeling unable to stop, may indicate a pornography addiction.
Overconsumption of pornography can result in psychological cravings and compulsions to access porn as a coping mechanism. The short-term and long-term risks of porn addiction disorder include, but are not limited to:
- Depression and poor mental health.
- Social isolation.
- Dopamine addiction and weakened executive function.
- Financial problems.
- Procrastination and decreased productivity.
- Poor academic or work performance.
- Loss of career or education.
- Desensitisation and dysphoria.
- Sexual dysfunction.
Resources and support
If you are experiencing problems relating to pornography addiction, or know someone who is, please remember that you are not alone. You can access free and confidential support at UCL as a registered student. Our empathetic team can support you to find the best treatment method for your needs.
External support
There are also a number of services and websites that can help you better understand and cope with pornography addiction.
Porn addiction refers to compulsive watching, reading, or listening to sexually explicit material.
If you are worried that watching porn is affecting your daily life or how it makes you feel, it may be time for a change.
Visit the Counselling Directory website to learn more about porn addiction, signs to look out for, and how working with a therapist can help you.
Sex Addicts Anonymous is a peer-led fellowship. The organisation host regular group meetings in local communities to support recovery from harmful sexual behaviours.
Use the SAA meeting search tool to find a meeting online, by telephone or in-person in your local area.
You can contact the organisation by phone by calling 07585 091502 or 07748 168164. You can email the team at info@saauk.info.
For women preferring to contact a woman, call 07766 075247 or email women@saauk.info.
For Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer+ (LBGTQ+) people preferring to contact an LGBTQ+ person, call 07825 147995 or email lgbtq@saauk.info.
Relate is a charity providing relationship support in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Read the Relate webpage on porn addiction for guidance on the causes of porn addiction and the support options available to you.
The Mix is a digital charity offering non-judgemental support to 13-25 year olds on issues relating to mental health, sex and relationships, drugs, careers and money. The Mix website offers a wide range of articles and advice pages on issues relating to pornography.
You can contact The Mix team to access their crisis messenger service or counselling services.
Visit The Mix website for further guidance and support resources.
NoFap is a website dedicated to helping people overcome pornography addiction, excessive masturbation, and other compulsive sexual behaviours.
You can join a support group or a community forum.
Support groups for individuals who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviours, including pornography use.
Visit the Sexaholics Anonymous website.
Use your phone’s digital wellbeing controls to block certain apps, or put them on a timer.
Visit the Android website to find out more.
Use your phone’s digital wellbeing controls to block certain apps, or put them on a timer.
Visit the Apple website to find out more.
Cold Turkey blocks specific websites which may help you manage pornography addiction.
Contact Student Support and Wellbeing Services
UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services phone lines
Learn more about the Student Support and Wellbeing Services Phone Line and the UCL 24/7 Student Support Line.
Visit us
We are here to assist you with questions or concerns you may have about your Wellbeing, Student Record, Fees, Funding or any matters regarding your studies and life at UCL.
Seeing an adviser
Our team provide a safe and non-judgemental space in which you can discuss wellbeing, mental health or disability concerns that may be affecting your ability to study.