Sex and Porn Addiction: Why Is It So Hard to Recognize?

Is there such a thing as having too much sex or watching too much porn? What’s the difference between something that’s done for pleasure and an addiction? How do these things affect gay men in particular? These are questions that we discuss with behavioral health specialist, Brandon Simpson, AMFT, who specializes in treating patients who struggle with sex and porn addiction. It's no secret that sex and porn play a big role in our culture. The impact that these components can have on mental health is often not talked about, though, for fear of being “sex-negative”. Brandon brings his expertise to help us untangle the complex impacts of sex and porn on individuals and communities. He also defines the difference between something that enhances intimacy and something that is used as an escape. Additionally, he shines a light on how people struggling with their relationship to sex and porn can reframe their neural pathways and develop healthier habits. This episode takes an honest look at cultural norms in a compassionate and non-judgmental way. You will hear about: • The defining characteristics of sex and porn addiction • What sex and porn addiction looks and feels like in day-to-day life • Why gay men are more likely to be addicted to sex and porn • How sex and porn addiction can be treated • How to support others who are struggling with the ways they relate to sex and porn To read a transcript of the episode, visit: menshealthfound.org/podcast-transcript-episode-6 To request an appointment with Brandon, visit menshealthfound.org/book or call 310-550-1010. The information and opinions shared in this podcast are for educational purposes only. Diagnostic or treatment advice requires individual consultation with a doctor. Please talk with your primary care physician or a medically-licensed professional. Resources mentioned in the episode: Sexual Health Clinics in the LA Area Center for Healthy Sex - https://centerforhealthysex.com/ Seeking Integrity - https://seekingintegrity.com/ Novus Mindful Life - https://novusmindfullife.com/ Cruise Control: Understanding Sex Addiction in Gay Men https://allstora.com/products/cruise-control-understanding-sex-addiction-in-gay-men