It has been my experience in my private practice that individuals diagnosed with moderate to severe ADHD can display hypersexuality tendencies. Read this link https://www.psypost.org/2019/07/study-adult-adhd-symptoms-play-important-role-in-hypersexuality-and-problematic-pornography-use-53995
Individuals suffering from excessive porn use can lose large periods of time viewing porn, wasting most of the day without accomplishing much. You could notice that someone possibly addicted to porn is lethargic and not following through as of late. They might seem like they don’t care or are very uninterested in anything else.
When a loved one is diagnosed with ADHD, I would suggest processing a few good questions with them. For example:
“I have noticed that you seem to disappear with your technology into another bedroom/bathroom for long periods of time. What are you looking at on your device? Will you show me your current browser activity?” Be curious if the loved one becomes defensive and makes excuses. People addicted to porn report that they experience cravings to view more. Similar to how someone can be addicted to drugs, people who suffer from porn addiction will feel cravings if they have gone without it for any amount of time.
“Are you unable to stop using or viewing pornography, despite trying to do so?” If your loved one can’t stop, you may notice that they are spending more and more time on the Internet despite your attempts to communicate with them.
“When was the last time you looked at porn and for how long?”
Understand that any loved one may not respond truthfully. The person struggling with a possible porn addiction may feel ashamed about what they are doing or have denial tendencies. It is important to be able to speak openly if you believe that you, or anyone else, are exhibiting signs of porn addiction. Only by opening up to the idea of help can anyone feel hopeful and get the help they need.
Brent Cichoski, LPC, CSAT