Problematic pornography use (PPU) in Indian adults is strongly linked to psychological distress, says a recent NIMHANS study. Anxiety and stress emerged as major predictors. The study surveyed 112 adults aged 18 to 46 who struggled with their pornography use. The research found clear ties between PPU and symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, and cravings for pornography. Early exposure to porn was linked to higher chances of problematic use later. Porn use in India is rising due to easy access, affordability, and anonymity — the “Triple A” factors — along with growing normalisation on digital platforms, according to Manoj Kumar Sharma, Professor of Clinical Psychology at NIMHANS. Dr. Sharma noted that while most people use pornography harmlessly, some develop compulsive patterns that harm their mental and social life. Participants’ mental health was assessed through standard tests measuring depression, anxiety, stress, and addiction symptoms like tolerance and withdrawal. M. Rajashekar, a PhD scholar at NIMHANS, said people facing psychological distress may turn to pornography as a coping tool. Stress and anxiety may drive overuse, increasing guilt and emotional issues in a vicious cycle. Early porn exposure can reinforce cravings and push users towards more intense content, strengthening compulsive habits. Research faces challenges in India due to cultural stigma and moral taboos that block open talks and treatment. Most existing knowledge comes from Western studies, which may not fit India’s culture well. The study highlights the need for culturally aware, mental-health focused help, not just controlling use. Therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance-based methods, and mindfulness may aid emotional control and reduce shame. The authors call for larger, diverse research including personal stories to better support those facing PPU in India and design effective public health responses.