Counsel #16 — Porn-Induced Distress

Picture: Counsel #16 — Porn-Induced DistressCLi 103.1

With the introduction of porn in someone’s life comes the introduction of envy, depression, anxiety, and self-worth problems.^{[95]https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10399954/} Aside from the false sense of sexual gratification it gives users, porn effects each person inwardly as well. The people seen on computer screens or TV are presented as having “perfect bodies” void of physical flaws or imperfections. This can lead viewers to feel their own physical appearance doesn’t “measure up;” that changes need to be made to their bodies to be attractive, accepted, or loved.CLi 103.2

An important step in overcoming mental health issues that arise from viewing pornography is to know and understand that everything you see on screen is fake. Porn models pay thousands of dollars for implants or other body modifications to portray themselves as perfect, but when the director yells cut, the same body you saw enhanced on the screen is not the same person you would recognize in person. Whenever you’re feeling mentally discouraged, know that God defines beauty by what’s inside a person’s heart, not by how they look on the outside. God loves you just the way that you are — as His child made in His image.CLi 103.3

“How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.” Psalms 119:9 NIVCLi 103.4

“He who refuses to connect with God, and puts himself in the way of temptation will surely fall.” Ellen White in Letters to Young Lovers, p. 27CLi 103.5

Reflect: Have you been exposed to porn? How has it affected your mental health?CLi 103.6