Coronavirus, Quarantine & Porn
There’s no denying the reality: porn-watching has currently become even more of an American pastime, as we all seek ways to occupy our time sheltering in place/lockdown. Several porn sites have reported huge increases in traffic, and one of them has even offered its premium service for free during quarantine, in an effort to help flatten the curve. There’s even been a spike in searches for “coronavirus porn.” This may or may not offer up some tips on how to do the deed in a mask, gloves and hazmat suit, but it also points to our need for novelty and new experiences, especially when it comes to sex.
I’m not anti-porn (in fact, I sometimes recommend it), but excessive porn use can create some challenges and lead to problematic behaviors. You may be using porn as a way to pass time, you might also be using it as a coping mechanism for loneliness, boredom, anxiety or depression. If you’ve already noticed some challenges around porn, they may be exacerbated when overly used in this way. Men with a compulsion for porn may encounter difficulties in connecting and maintaining intimacy in a partnered relationship, or experience signs of sexual issues such as ED or premature ejaculation.
Porn moves from a pastime to a compulsion (some call it an addiction) when it takes on some of the common characteristics of many common addictions: it replaces or gets in the way of relationships, you structure your life around maintaining access to it, you feel anxious if you don’t have access to it, you neglect or pass up relationships or opportunities that may get in the way of your ability to watch porn, or you feel unable to stop or to consciously choose when to watch it. Granted, these are unprecedented times and if you find you’re no longer comfortable with the amount of porn you’re consuming or you’re experiencing elevated anxiety, sexual, dating or relationship difficulties, a sex coach can help. Together we can explore ways to help you find balance and satisfaction within yourself or your relationship.