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Episode #112: Compulsive Masturbation & Erectile Dysfunction - Dr. Trish Leigh

Dr. Trish Leigh

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Toxic Self soothing loop of Masturbation

Masturbation often starts as a way to self-soothe and regulate mood, especially in the midst of a challenging environment. Over time, it can become a habit to avoid feeling bad rather than to feel good, leading to misuse, abuse, and compulsion. This emotionally immature habit developed in childhood can create a dependency on dopamine, reinforcing the need for masturbation to offset stress and boredom. To break this cycle, it's important to develop a healthy toolbox of mood regulation activities and exercises to provide the brain with a healthy amount of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. Continuing to rely on masturbation, especially coupled with pornography or fantasy, can lead to an unhealthy dopamine dependency and reinforce the compulsion to engage in the behavior to avoid feeling bad.

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