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The Silent Crisis: How India'S Youth Are Spiraling Into Problematic Pornography Use
Mental Health at Stake
Problematic Pornography Use (PPU) is emerging as a serious mental health concern among India's youth, according to a recent study. Young men and women, especially, are using porn as a way to handle stress and anxiety, but the relief it provides is short-lived. Over time, this habit can compound into deeper psychological issues.
The research, conducted by experts M Rajashekar, Manoj Kumar Sharma, and Senthil Amudhan, examines the impact of early exposure to adult content. Findings show that those who begin watching porn in their teens are more likely to develop compulsive behaviors later, escalating to more extreme material. The cycle of anxiety and stress is both a trigger and a consequence, creating a complex web difficult to escape.
The Invisible Struggle
Surveying 112 Indian adults aged 18 to 46 over platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Reddit, the study highlights a broader, silent crisis. Although more than 80% of participants were men, the trend is not exclusive to them. Indian women are increasingly consuming adult content, though stigma keeps many from seeking help. Nationally, India ranks third in female porn consumption, pointing to a substantial but hidden public health issue.
"Problematic pornography use is not just a personal habit; it’s a mental health concern. Young adults often use it to cope with stress and anxiety, but over time, it can worsen these issues," explains Dr. Vanitha Rao, a psychiatrist involved in the study.
A Call for Action
In Bengaluru, a city teeming with students and tech professionals, the rapid pace of life may exacerbate stress, making young adults particularly vulnerable to PPU. Experts stress the urgency of introducing educational and mental health support initiatives to address this growing issue before it impacts personal relationships and productivity.
The study calls for culturally sensitive interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques, to help manage stress and reduce dependency on pornography. By integrating sexual and mental health education into schools and workplaces, India could take proactive measures to combat this silent epidemic.
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Author: Cole
