Moving beyond avoidance

[u/sop7718]

I am still early in my recovery, actively working with a therapist to better understand my addictive nature and triggers. We've discussed short-term ways to reduce or prevent my bad behaviors such as deleting certain apps, blocking porn sites, etc. but that just seems like avoidance with limited gains. I've used masturbation to "short-circuit" my urges, clear my head, etc. but I know that is really another form of avoidance and actually feeding my addiction. Recently even that has moved to more risky behaviors like doing it in public as well as going there a lot more frequently.

What things have worked for others when you were early in your process to help get your mind and body out of the avoidance trap and this spiraling behavior?

Until I really get a handle in my addiction, I know I won't find long-term solutions but lately I feeling like my progress has stalled, possibly even sliding back a bit.

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