Recovering Sex Addict Shares Story, Cautions Others
Leahy's addiction spanned a period of 30 years and included a pornography habit as well as voyeurism.
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September 18, 2009
Talking about one's sex addiction is not easy, but that is part of what helped Michael Leahy survive his own challenge and ultimately thrive while helping others deal with the affliction.
Leahy's addiction spanned a period of 30 years and included a pornography habit as well as voyeurism, which he was able to finally overcome a decade ago through a combination of determination and therapy.
Instead of hiding his past and remaining silent he chose to speak out in hopes of inspiring others to deal with a condition that affects an estimated 8 percent of men and 3 percent of women in America.
In fact, Leahy is thriving in his new role as an expert on emerging technology trends in the pornography industry - having spent 20 years in the technology sector - as well as the author of a book on sex addiction, according to the National Speakers Association.
While not so devastating as alcoholism or financially ruining as gambling, sex addiction can be personally troubling, and some of its forms - like voyeurism - are criminal.
Those affected by the disorder are encouraged to seek professional counseling, available at most mental health facilities. Finding a support network can also aid the recovery process.
Some people have chosen to become involved with the cause of preventing sex addiction or sexual violence - for example, Michael Leahy founded Brave Hearts, an organization that works against global sexual exploitation.
Talking about one's sex addiction is not easy, but that is part of what helped Michael Leahy survive his own challenge and ultimately thrive while helping others deal with the affliction.
Leahy's addiction spanned a period of 30 years and included a pornography habit as well as voyeurism, which he was able to finally overcome a decade ago through a combination of determination and therapy.
Instead of hiding his past and remaining silent he chose to speak out in hopes of inspiring others to deal with a condition that affects an estimated 8 percent of men and 3 percent of women in America.
In fact, Leahy is thriving in his new role as an expert on emerging technology trends in the pornography industry - having spent 20 years in the technology sector - as well as the author of a book on sex addiction, according to the National Speakers Association.
While not so devastating as alcoholism or financially ruining as gambling, sex addiction can be personally troubling, and some of its forms - like voyeurism - are criminal.
Those affected by the disorder are encouraged to seek professional counseling, available at most mental health facilities. Finding a support network can also aid the recovery process.
Some people have chosen to become involved with the cause of preventing sex addiction or sexual violence - for example, Michael Leahy founded Brave Hearts, an organization that works against global sexual exploitation.
