Intrusive thoughts

Intrusive thoughts will be a constant battle, but the longer you stay clean the easier it will become. While we were addicted we conditioned our brain to think about sex all the time. We may have used porn for any number of reasons. We might have to deal with those root causes before we notice any improvements.

The brain will notice and react to a trigger within 33 milliseconds. So, you need to identify your triggers - physical, emotional, and environmental. Do what you can to avoid intentional exposure. Be prepared for triggers. Don't allow yourself to be in a position where you have an opportunity to give in to your urges.

Feed your mind something else. Take up a hobby, activity, interest, or exercise. If you intend to rewire your brain then you need to give it something you want it to turn into.

Lastly, it's going to take a lot of time. Your mind has developed deep ruts and you need to break up those ruts. It is exhausting and non-stop in the beginning, but eventually, you won't be as plagued with intrusive thoughts as you were when you started.

 

Have you tried a book on mindfulness? My husband said that is what helped him most with changing the way he was thinking, and being more present in the moment.