In this episode of The Pausing Porn Podcast, I dive into one of the biggest questions in recovery — is porn really an addiction. I explain what the World Health Organization classifies compulsive porn use as, I share my personal experience with compulsive porn use, how it meets nearly every sign of addiction like loss of control, craving, tolerance, and withdrawal, and why I believe porn can still function as an addiction even if it is not officially recognized.

I talk about why this classification matters for people struggling with porn, from the lack of research and treatment funding to the stigma and confusion it creates for men trying to quit. I also explore whether calling yourself a porn addict helps or harms recovery and how to use language that supports real healing rather than shame.

If you have ever asked yourself whether porn is an addiction, or how that affects recovery, this episode will give you the science, clarity, and mindset you need to move forward.

Keywords: porn addiction, addictive, compulsive porn use, porn recovery, porn disorder, DSM 5, compulsive sexual behaviour disorder, quitting porn, how to stop watching porn, porn withdrawal, porn cravings, porn tolerance, porn classification, addiction recovery, men’s mental health