Porn and real life. Scenario 10 of 15. Where a habit is heading

Stronger stuff

You have noticed that what you watch has changed. Things that would have put you off a year ago are now what you search for, and the ordinary stuff no longer holds your attention.

Some of it sits badly with you afterwards. You have not told anyone.

What is the best call for you?

Do not think about it. It is only on a screen, and nobody is harmed.

Not the best call

Your own reaction is telling you something. Some people find that what they watch drifts towards more extreme material over time, and that it starts to shape what they expect. Noticing the drift is the moment to act.

Take a proper break, a few weeks at least, and see how you feel. If it is hard to stop, or it is heading somewhere that worries you, talk to someone.

Good call

A break lets you see how strong the pull really is. If you cannot stop, a GP or a therapist can help. If you are worried about being drawn towards illegal material, Stop It Now runs a confidential, anonymous helpline for exactly that.

Tell yourself you are disgusting and promise never to do it again.

Could be better

You have recognised a problem, which is the hard part. But self-disgust is not a plan, and for many people feeling that bad is what sends them back. Treat it as a habit to change, not a verdict on who you are.

Keep watching, but only late at night when nobody could find out.

Not the best call

Secrecy does not change where this is heading. It just removes anyone who might notice. The more hidden a habit is, the harder it becomes to ask for help with it.

The principle

If what you watch is drifting somewhere that unsettles you, stop and take stock early. Asking for help before a line is crossed is a sign of responsibility, and confidential help exists.

Where to get help and advice

These UK services are free to use. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.

ChildlineFor anyone under 19, about anything, including things they have seen online.
NSPCCAdvice for parents and carers on talking to children about porn and online safety.
Internet MattersStep-by-step guides to parental controls on phones, consoles and broadband.
BrookHonest information about sex and relationships for young people.
Internet Watch FoundationReport sexual images or videos of anyone under 18. You can do it anonymously.
Revenge Porn HelplineFor adults whose intimate images have been shared, or threatened to be.
RelateRelationship and sex therapy, including when porn is causing problems.
Stop It NowConfidential, anonymous help if you are worried about what you are looking at online.