Its hard to over state how plentiful pornography has become, to basically the point of being synonymous with the internet itself. And despite sex positivity, couples’ co-viewing, even pro-masturbation advocacy, for some of us our porn viewing has tipped into a strong compulsion if not an addiction. Nearly half of all UK adults, and about 40 million American adults, watch porn regularly. Certainly, everyone needs to release sometimes and many do by viewing porn without any tangible impact to their daily lives.
However, as many of us know, sometimes too much of anything becomes a problem, and adult content is no different. Several studies show more than 20% of men surveyed are suffering from porn addiction. This time taken from productivity alone is estimated to cost the US $16.9 billion annually, and can lead to host of problems including sexual dysfunction and depression, dissatisfaction in bed, and even divorce.
Sometimes its just a matter personal satisfaction and pride, being at peace with your self and your choices. But, as any veteran smoker can tell you, addiction is a hard thing to stomp, and old habits die hard. If you’re looking to get off ‘getting off’ to porn, then here are five great apps that could help you do just that.
1. Victory – Free – All devices
A great simple option, Victory allows you to keep track down to the second of how long its been since your last look. It makes daily check-ins and your progress and has a peer-support system called ‘Prayers’ to help keep you accountable and motivated to abstain. Should you falter, it offers comprehensive suggestions and tips, as well as a place to record the incident in detail, so you know what to avoid.
2. Porn Addiction Calander – Free – All devices
Get insights into your money and time saved by being free of porn and personalize the app with different colors and themes. Obtain badges as reward for your success and distract yourself with interesting visuals of nature and landscapes. Worst comes to worse, hit the panic button and send a text to friend you know can help keep you accountable.
3. BlockerX – Free, In-app purchases – IOS
Offering a wide variety of hard-hitting features for those that need some extra help staying away, BlockerX brings the heat. Block websites, apps, even keywords from your device and search engine to kill any chance of reprieve. It’s also an active online community you can access for support or use as accountability partners. You can even tie the ability to uninstall the app from your device to your partner in case you really need help in self-control.
4. Brainbuddy – Free, In-app purchases – IOS
This app sets itself apart with tools to change your brain-wiring, bringing science-based routines and exercises to help change your thinking and move past your addiction, along with the ability to set personal challenges and create a team to help encourage and keep each other in check. As you improve and get better, an animated tree will blossom and become lusher over time, giving a aesthetically pleasing marker to your progress.
5. Four Streams Coaching – Free, Paid subscriptions – All devices
Created by addicts, for addicts. A professional app designed to tackle addictions to pornography, as well as many other psychological issues and disorders. Connect with a personal counsellor that will work with you anytime, anyplace through private, secure messaging and video call. Together you’ll set goals and apply strategies to get yourself to where you want to be and transform yourself into a better version of yourself.
