*The name of this individual has been redacted to protect his privacy.
High school has never been easy for me, even though it probably looked like I had it all together. I was on the sports teams, hung out with the popular kids, and tried to keep up the image of someone confident and happy. But on the inside, I felt like I didn’t quite fit in. No matter how many friends I had around me, I struggled with social pressures and feeling good about myself.
On top of all that, I had a secret—something I thought I’d never share with anyone. I was addicted to pornography. It felt humiliating and wrong, and I thought if anyone found out, they’d see me as disgusting. It wasn’t until I joined the Valor group at Family Strategies that I realized I wasn’t alone—and I didn’t have to fight this battle by myself.
When my parents first suggested I attend Valor, I was mortified. The thought of sitting in a group with other guys, talking about something so personal, made me feel sick. I couldn’t imagine admitting my struggles out loud. But deep down, I knew I needed help. Pornography had taken over my life, and I hated how it made me feel—ashamed, isolated, and completely stuck.
Walking into that first group meeting was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I felt like everyone was going to judge me, like I didn’t belong there. But what happened next totally changed my perspective.
After the first few minutes of the meeting, my anxiety started to fade. The guys in Valor were just like me—they all struggled with the same thing. No one was there to judge or shame anyone else. In fact, the group was the most supportive environment I’ve ever been in.
I’ll never forget the moment I broke down and started crying. I’m not someone who cries, but I couldn’t hold it in. All the stress, shame, and fear I’d been carrying just came pouring out. Instead of making me feel weak, the other guys in the group listened, encouraged me, and made it clear I wasn’t alone. For the first time, I didn’t feel like a disgusting person. I felt human, and I felt hope.
Valor gave me so much more than just freedom from pornography—it gave me my confidence back. Through the group, I learned tools to manage my triggers, understand my emotions, and rebuild my self-esteem. The leaders and my peers in Valor showed me how to be honest with myself and others, and how to move forward without shame.
Now, I’m happy—truly happy. I feel ready to start dating and building real relationships without the baggage of my addiction holding me back. I’m grateful every day for the chance to reclaim my life, and I’ll never forget the support I found in Valor.
If you’re a teenager struggling with pornography, don’t let the fear of asking for help stop you. Valor changed my life, and it can change yours too.
Family Strategies Counseling Center has actively serviced clients since 2000 in treatment for pornography addiction or sexually compulsive behavior. Our SABR program for adults and Valor Groups for young men can help you! Give us a call at (800) 614-8142 or visit our website for more information: Family Strategies Counseling Center.
