Secrets

Shame plays a big part in the way PMO destroys our quality of life. There are different aspects of it. There exists the shame of the sexual content in the videos. Personally, I don't really dwell on that or feel that this in particular affects me. The real shame is the lying about the dependency to your loved ones. My wife is quietly aware that I would masturbate often and she assumes that I'm using online porn. We have a great sexual relationship so, unlike a lot of the SO's mentioned by men on noFap, she kind of doesn't mind. She thinks it's a way to supplement me. This sort of "arrangement" has quietly eaten at my self esteem and I'm looking forward to it ending.

 

Yes I felt that hidding my struggles would just hurt me so I talk to almost everyone I trust about it, even my parents know about my addiction, it's better to be honest with at least one person... the sense of relife it gives is amazing.

 

Sounds like you have a great support group. Congrats!

 

Secrets about these things wreck all sorts of havoc, especially if you are in a relationship. The SO needs to know.
They are also bad for you yourself. That is part of what makes a forum like this so important. You can say things and get them off your chest and possibly even get some advice or help.

 

Hey @James Mattingly . One day at a time. Getting past addiction is tough. Doing it while starting a new job must be even more challenging. I hope you've managed to get through it, gotten some rest and taken on the next day. We're here for you.