A Couple’s Story  |  Names and details have been changed to protect privacy

Riya and Amit had been married for four years. From the outside, everything seemed fine, but for the past few months Riya had felt a strange distance at home. Amit stayed on his phone late into the night, seemed irritable, avoided conversations, and the closeness between them had almost disappeared.

Riya couldn’t understand what was wrong. She wondered, “Is something lacking in me? Has Amit lost interest in me?” She couldn’t talk to anyone about it either, because even within a marriage, this is not an easy topic to raise.

For Amit, the situation was just as hard. Masturbation and porn had become a habit he could not control, no matter how much he wanted to. Every time, he felt guilt and shame, yet the pattern repeated. He feared that if he told Riya, their relationship would fall apart.

One day, instead of anger or blame, Riya approached him with love. She told Amit this wasn’t just his problem but theirs, and that they would find a solution together. She was the one who suggested he speak to a professional therapist.

In therapy, Amit learned that porn and masturbation habits are often linked to stress, loneliness, anxiety, or emotional disconnection. His therapist helped him identify his triggers, build healthier coping strategies, and talk openly about his needs. Riya was also included in counselling, so the two of them could understand each other without judgement.

Within a few weeks, things began to change. Amit’s phone use dropped, his mood improved, and the two began talking again. Today, Riya says:

If you or your partner are going through something similar, remember that there is no shame in it, and there is a way forward. For confidential, judgement-free support, visit kamahealthindia.com.

Is porn or masturbation addiction a real problem?

Occasional masturbation is common and generally considered a normal part of sexuality. It becomes a concern when it feels compulsive, when a person cannot cut down despite wanting to, or when it starts affecting relationships, work, sleep, mood, or self-esteem. At that point, professional support can help.

How do I know if it has become a problem for me or my partner?

Some common signs are:

•           Spending more time than intended, or feeling unable to stop despite trying

•           Feeling guilt, shame, or irritability afterward

•           Reduced interest in intimacy with a partner

•           Using it to escape stress, loneliness, or low mood

•           Secrecy, late-night phone use, or withdrawing from conversations

•           Problems with sleep, focus, work, or relationships

Is it only men who struggle with this?

No. People of all genders, ages, and relationship statuses can struggle with compulsive porn use or masturbation. Men often seek help later because of shame and social silence, but it is not limited to any one group.

Is it my fault if my partner has this habit?

No. Partners often blame themselves and wonder if something is lacking in them. In most cases, the habit is linked to stress, loneliness, anxiety, or emotional patterns that have nothing to do with the partner's appearance or worth.

How should I bring this up with my partner without starting a fight?

Choose a calm, private moment and speak from your own feelings, for example, "I have been feeling distant from you and I want us to work on this together." Avoid blame, sarcasm, or ultimatums. Presenting it as a shared challenge rather than one person's failure makes it easier to open up.

What happens in therapy for this issue?

A therapist helps you understand what triggers the habit, such as stress, boredom, loneliness, or emotional disconnection, and teaches healthier coping strategies. Sessions also focus on communication, rebuilding trust, and reducing shame. Partners can be included in counselling if both are comfortable.

Will my partner or family find out? Is it confidential?

Therapy is confidential, and your personal details are not shared without your consent. You decide whether and when to involve your partner.

Do I need medicines?

Many people benefit from counselling alone. In some cases, if anxiety, depression, or other conditions are present, a qualified doctor may suggest additional treatment. Any decision about medication should be made only by a licensed medical professional.

How long does it take to see improvement?

It varies from person to person. Some people notice better mood and communication within a few weeks, while others need longer. Progress depends on consistency, support, and the underlying causes. No therapy can promise a guaranteed or instant result.

Can couples therapy help rebuild intimacy?

Yes. Many couples find that talking openly, with a trained professional guiding the conversation, helps rebuild trust, emotional closeness, and physical intimacy at a comfortable pace.

Is feeling guilt or shame normal?

Yes, very common. But shame often fuels the cycle rather than breaking it. Therapy offers a judgement-free space to move from shame toward understanding and change.

How do I book a consultation?

You can visit kamahealthindia.com to get in touch and schedule a confidential, judgement-free consultation.