Since 2009, we've given visibility to research and personal accounts demonstrating how pornography can negatively impact individuals, relationships, and society. Through this grassroots movement, millions of people have found hope and freedom. We couldn't do this without Fighters like you!
I always had the strong feeling that I was alone with this, especially because I’m a woman. But since I started this journey of recovery, I noticed that this is not exclusively a male problem. Girls struggle, too. With a huge amount of courage, I told my best friend about my struggle. She said: “You know what? I don’t care what you’re struggling with. You’re still the same, wonderful person I love so much.” This changed my life. I started to tell more people that I trusted and always got a similar response: we’re in this together.
So to all the Fighters out there, I want to encourage you! Tell someone you trust about your struggle. It will not get better by hiding and shaming yourself. You are powerful and worthy of love! I’m currently still recovering. My journey is not over yet. But I hang in there. I know one day I will be able to say that I beat this. And I can’t wait for this day!
I’ve struggled with porn addiction since age 12. I’m finally choosing to let my shame go. Porn is very prevalent in Icelandic society, but its negative effects are rarely, if ever, discussed. People view it as perfectly normal. Therapists never mention it as an issue, and I’ve never heard an Icelandic person admit they have a problem with porn, so I felt like I was the only one. Hearing personal accounts from FTND and studying the research has been so refreshing, knowing that I am not alone.
In high school, I gave a speech explaining porn stats I got from your website. The teacher told me afterwards she’d learned a lot and wished everyone in school could hear that message. I think people here would agree, but they just don’t know. So I wanted to thank you, especially for your podcast which has been a way for me to be surrounded by light and strength. You reach far outside the US, and have at least one supporter in Iceland. Much love.
I am so grateful for organizations like this one. My previous boyfriend had a severe porn addiction that instilled lies in me that I was not enough. Reading articles of women who have stories similar to mine, and having people committed to ending people’s consumption, I am encouraged by the stand. Thanks so much!
Well done. Recently, I’ve learned that someone close to me has been watching porn, and this helped just ease the pain with humor and the comfort of knowing we are not alone in the struggle. There is comfort in the science—it is validating. There is hope in knowing change is possible and can be pretty radical if we are open to the journey. Thank you, all!
