Is masturbation forbidden, and what should one who practices it do to be able to stop it?

Masturbation is forbidden by the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, as Allah Almighty says: "And those who guard their private parts Except from their wives or those whom their right hands possess, for indeed, they are not to be blamed But whoever seeks beyond that - then those are the transgressors." And as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "O young men, whoever among you can afford to marry, let him do so, for it is more lowering to the gaze and more guarding of the private part. And whoever cannot afford it, let him fast, for it is a shield for him." The way to get rid of it is by fearing Allah and being mindful of Him, lowering the gaze, associating with righteous people, and occupying one's time with beneficial knowledge and deeds.