Emotional problems?

Yes, definitely do that. It took me a long time to understand the saying that "PMO is not the problem, it's a symptom", but I think I finallt get it.

Since I started my therapy sessions I realized that PMO is just a tiny issue in the bigger picture.

By focusing on the real problems I am (1) focusing less on PMO, and thus less tempted to relapse and (2) I know I'm doing the right thing by trying to tackle the real problems that caused me to be a PMO addict in the first place, so the feelings of anxiety, guilt and shame are diminishing and I feel less tempted to PMO. It's a sort of virtuous cycle.

Imagine someone trying to drain the water from their basement in the middle of a hurricane: it's not gonna stop the flooding, just minimize the damage for awhile. You can fight your PMO addiction all you want, but if you don't fix the underlying issues that cause your emotional unease, you will eventually relapse imo.

 

Have a good day

 

well said, brother!

 

I'd put 60% effort on emotional improvement. (i don't know what exactly it means to you....) But for me, it means to work hard towards my goals and feel the sense of accomplishment. and 40% on avoiding PMO (getting accountability partner, avoiding triggers, calling a friend when urges are strong, believe me, my heart was beating fast when I went to a massage parlor, thankfully it was close and I called an AP speaking to him calmed me down, or I was gonna go to another one....)