Addiction

Assalamualaikum Brother,

What you’re describing is actually very common during adolescence. At your age, the body is going through a lot of changes, and it’s normal to experience strong urges and curiosity. Having these experiences does not mean something is wrong with you.

From what you’ve shared, it also sounds like this has become something you feel stuck in at times, especially when you’re bored, alone, using your phone, or at night. That pattern is important because it shows this is less about lack of control and more about a habit cycle your brain has learned.

Instead of focusing only on trying to force yourself to stop, we can focus on building awareness and creating small changes that give you more control over the situation. Noticing your triggers (like boredom, being alone, or late-night phone use). Changing your environment when urges show up (for example, leaving your room or being around others).Doing a physical activity when urges feel strong (walking, exercise, shower). Reducing situations where you are most likely to act on impulse (like lying in bed with your phone at night). Practicing self-compassion if it happens again, instead of guilt or self-criticism.

It’s also important to understand that setbacks do not mean failure. This is a process of learning self-regulation over time, not something you have to be perfect at immediately. If this is causing you a lot of distress or feels hard to manage on your own, you can continue to work on strategies that fit your routine and help you feel more in control. Focus on function, triggers and coping skills. Emphasize skill-building, not suppression. You’re not trying to be perfect , you’re learning self-control. That takes time, and you’re not alone in it. If you slip, don’t be hard on yourself. It’s part of learning control, not failure.

What matters is what you do next, not the mistake itself. Staying busy and physically active. Reducing late-night phone use. Avoiding being alone with triggering content. Getting enough sleep. Having a quick urge plan (walk, shower, exercise, texting a friend, gaming, going downstairs, etc.) If it ever starts feeling compulsive, interferes with daily life, school, sleep, faith, or mental health, talking to a trusted adult will be a better option. Everything will be fine. 

In Shaa Allah.

Warm regards,

From your Sister in Islam,

“Fatima MV”