ESSAY August 2025 - The Healing Began - Barry O., Charlestown, Ireland

As a result of working the Program, this member likes the man he is growing into. Before SA and recovery from chronic lusting and the acting out that followed, I was frequently lost in fantasy, on dating apps, or in an “intimate encounter.” The irony was, there was nothing intimate about it. This behavior eroded away my soul and made me feel deeply ashamed. It was also causing aggravation, fear, and intimidation–albeit unintentionally. Like any good ol’ sexaholic, I could not stop.