Effective Strategies to Overcome Masturbation Addiction

How to quit masturbation?

Hello, doctor: I have developed a habit of masturbation since middle school, and I have been unable to quit even through college.
I believe that starting this habit at a young age has led to difficulties in concentrating during class or studying, and I often find myself dozing off.
Although I have tried to quit masturbation, I usually feel a resurgence of energy in my lower body about two days after I masturbate.
After approximately four days, I occasionally experience a feeling of swelling near my lower body (around the bladder or testicles), which can last for several hours, and during this time, I am prone to sexual urges and feel a strong desire to masturbate to alleviate this discomfort.
Even if I manage to hold off for a few days without viewing any pornographic material, around a week after masturbating, I find it unbearable to deal with this physical discomfort.
If I experience any psychological stress or come across any stimulating material, I find it very difficult to resist the urge to masturbate again.
Is there any medication that can help control this? Or are there any methods to suppress sexual urges and alleviate this discomfort? Thank you.

A Nan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/10/31

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology

Masturbation and sexual impulses are natural physiological needs, and there are no specific medications to suppress them.
The solution lies within you; it should be addressed by your own mind.
You can redirect your feelings through other hobbies, engage in physical exercise, or spend time in public places.
In public settings, you are unlikely to experience uncontrollable urges to masturbate, which indicates that you do have self-control.
This is simply a natural response of youth that can be channeled into motivation for work or other pursuits.
I suggest you also consider watching "Our Times," as its storyline may resonate with your situation.
However, if your mental state has been affected or if there are inappropriate thoughts or potential for sexual offenses, please seek assistance from a psychiatrist or a mental health professional.

Reply Date: 2012/10/31

More Info

Overcoming masturbation addiction can be a challenging journey, especially when it has become a habitual behavior that affects your daily life, concentration, and overall well-being. It’s important to understand that this is a common issue, and many individuals face similar struggles. Here are some effective strategies and insights that may help you in your endeavor to manage and potentially overcome this habit.

Understanding the Cycle
First, it’s crucial to recognize the cycle of addiction. Masturbation can provide temporary relief or pleasure, but it often leads to feelings of guilt or discomfort afterward. This cycle can create a dependency where the individual feels compelled to engage in the behavior to alleviate physical discomfort or psychological stress. The symptoms you described, such as swelling or discomfort in the genital area, may be related to the frequency of masturbation and the body's response to sexual arousal.

Behavioral Strategies
1. Identify Triggers: Understanding what triggers your urge to masturbate is essential. This could be stress, boredom, or exposure to sexual content. Keeping a journal to track these triggers can help you identify patterns and develop strategies to avoid or cope with them.

2. Develop Alternative Activities: Engage in activities that can distract you from the urge to masturbate. This could include exercise, hobbies, reading, or spending time with friends. Physical activity, in particular, can help reduce stress and improve your mood, making it easier to resist urges.

3. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts and urges without acting on them. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help you manage stress and reduce the compulsion to engage in the behavior.

4. Set Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for reducing the frequency of masturbation. For example, you might aim to reduce the number of times you masturbate each week gradually. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, to reinforce positive behavior.

Professional Help
If self-help strategies are not sufficient, consider seeking professional help. A therapist or counselor specializing in sexual health or addiction can provide support and guidance tailored to your specific situation. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in addressing compulsive behaviors by helping you change the thought patterns that contribute to the addiction.

Medication Options
While there are no specific medications approved solely for the treatment of masturbation addiction, some medications can help manage underlying issues such as anxiety or depression that may contribute to compulsive behaviors. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are sometimes prescribed for individuals struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors, as they can help reduce sexual urges. However, medication should always be discussed with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your specific needs and circumstances.

Lifestyle Changes
1. Limit Exposure to Triggers: Avoid situations or materials that may trigger the urge to masturbate. This could include limiting access to pornography or avoiding situations where you feel particularly vulnerable.

2. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. A healthy lifestyle can improve your overall mood and reduce stress, making it easier to manage urges.

3. Support Groups: Consider joining a support group where you can share your experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. This can provide a sense of community and accountability.

Conclusion
Overcoming masturbation addiction is a process that requires patience and commitment. It’s essential to be kind to yourself and recognize that setbacks may occur. By implementing these strategies, seeking professional help if necessary, and making lifestyle changes, you can work towards regaining control over your habits and improving your overall well-being. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and support is available.

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