In most cases, masturbation is a normal sexual practice that does not cause any physical or emotional distress. However, it can become a problem if it is interfering negatively with a person’s life.

In the sections below, we discuss why it may be beneficial to stop masturbating, how to stop, and how to recognize when it may be becoming a problem.

If masturbation is a part of most of your thoughts and if it has started affecting your everyday life, you must check yourself for the following symptoms :

• Do you seek increasingly graphic or violent pornography?

• Do you feel ashamed of masturbating frequently?

• Are you facing trouble in any relationship because of your masturbation habit?

• Have you or do you masturbate at inappropriate places such as in public places, at work, at relatives, etc.?

• Do you feel frustrated, sad or depressed when you can’t masturbate?

• Do you face trouble spending time with your family or children, or in enjoying the activities you previously enjoyed?

Addiction is caused by two brain chemicals, Dopamine and endorphins. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter which helps you experience pleasure. While, endorphins are the hormones which are released during the times of stress and physical activity. Endorphins help you in recovery process.

When you masturbate, the body releases dopamine, the chemical that enables you to feel sexual pleasure, and endorphins, once you are done masturbating. Over time, this release of brain chemicals is needed by your body more frequently.

Endorphins and dopamine are stress relievers. So, those who experience more stress than usual or are suffering from any mental health problems are most likely to become addicted to masturbation and the release of these chemicals.

If masturbation is becoming a problem, there are strategies and techniques to help a person stop.

A combination of techniques may be helpful, including the following :

1. Avoid pornography

2. Stay active

3. Find other outlets to spend your time and energy

4. Play sports, be creative, eat healthy and sleep well

5. Limit your solitude

6. Remove everything that can stimulate you in any way to watch porn

7. Consume fruits and vegetables that increase energy

8. Find someone to counsel you through your addiction

9. Be motivated and never feel ashamed

Masturbation is a healthy, normal activity. For some people, however, it can begin to interfere with everyday life and activities. While there are no physical side effects to masturbating frequently, it may interfere with your work, school, and relationships.

If this is happening to you, learning to stop or cut back on masturbation may help you have a healthier relationship with this sexual activity.