How can one stop masturbating and return to prayer after having abandoned it?

A Muslim youth must stay away from masturbation, which is harmful to the body, soul, and religion. He should marry if he is able, or fast if he is not, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "O young people, whoever among you can afford to marry, let him do so, for it is more lowering to the gaze and more preserving of the private parts. And whoever is not able, let him fast, for it will be a shield for him."

As for abandoning prayer, it is a great calamity, for "there is no share in Islam for one who abandons prayer," as 'Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, said.

Repentance must be immediate, and one must turn to performing prayers, accompanying the righteous, listening to lessons and admonitions, and staying away from bad company; as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "The example of a good companion and a bad companion is like that of the seller of musk and the blower of the bellows. As for the seller of musk, he will either give you some, or you will buy some from him, or you will find a pleasant scent from him. As for the blower of the bellows, he will either burn your clothes, or you will find a foul odor from him."