Recovery For Life

How to live a healthier life one day at a time.

Harris Stratyner, Ph.D., CASAC, is the Regional Vice President for Caron Treatment Centers' New York Recovery Center. See full bio

November 4, 2009

Stigma

Isn't it ironic that so many individuals have difficulties with alcohol and drug abuse, and yet we still stigmatize people who deal with this issue. I dare say that you know someone who has a substance abuse issue - perhaps even a member of your family.

October 7, 2009

A Frightening Thought

I'm greatly concerned that marijuana is being described as an acceptable drug. It's subtle, but standup comedians, sitcoms, talk shows; even some news stories turn the use of marijuana into a joke.

September 2, 2009

Don’t Allow Methamphetamine to Ruin Your Life

Methamphetamine - it's marketed to youngsters every day by drug dealers as an easy way to tune out. That is why it is so important to reach young people in a preventative way that will resonate with them. And that is exactly what The Meth Project, started in Montana, has done. Read More

August 26, 2009

This Simply Has To Stop

I recently had Karen Carpenter-Palumbo, the Commissioner of the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services of New York State, on my radio show. The topic was Decriminalization of Addiction. The conversation was a spirited one and the Commissioner very wisely pointed out that addiction is a "chronic illness." While I found myself completely agreeing with her, I decided to play devil's advocate and asked her what we should do about those individuals who have a disease that can repeatedly results in negative consequences, not only to themselves but to others - destruction of property, domestic violence, vehicular incidents, and in the worst case scenario death.

July 30, 2009

Strange Disease

I share this story because I want to empower people to do something about their alcoholism. Help is out there and I can't think of any worthwhile excuse not to get that help.

July 21, 2009

Food For Thought

In the past few weeks, I have been interviewed by the media about the tragic death of Michael Jackson. Mr. Jackson's untimely death was an opportunity to educate people about the dangers of prescription drug use gone horribly wrong Read More

June 18, 2009

The Link Between Violence and Substance Abuse

Ever wonder why man at times can be so inhumane to his fellow brothers and sisters? Throughout history, we have seen random acts of violence: war, domestic violence, rape, street crimes, turning over cars after a sporting event along with looting and burning, cruelty to animals, shootings, stabbing, robberies of many sorts. Read More

June 8, 2009

Relationships, Challenges and the Economy

The economy has affected everything from purchasing groceries to going on vacation, buying gas to paying for college, so it comes as no surprise that relationships are being challenged by the fiscal downturn as well. Read More

May 13, 2009

The Other Side of The Coin

We have all heard, witnessed and experienced first hand how the economy has hurt American society and the world at large - but what about the other side of the coin?

April 28, 2009

We Need to Really Practice Enjoying Life Naturally

I often wonder why it is so difficult to breathe when we are stressed. Oh, as a psychologist I understand the nature of fight or flight behavior, but as a regular "Joe" why must we always reach for a pill to deal with stress? Read More

Addiction Basics

Millions suffer from debilitating addictions, leaving friends and family to watch them succumb to seemingly uncontrollable urges. Scientists are rethinking the biology and psychology of addiction, providing new clues to treatment.

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