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

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

April 22, 2009

Everyone Is An Individual

As you know, I am best recognized for my work in addiction psychology - utilizing an approach that I have termed "carefrontation." You also know, if you are a frequent reader of my blog, that "carefrontation" treats every patient as an individual - it does not look to blame someone for having a disease, but rather hold the person responsible for dealing with that disease. Read More

April 16, 2009

Oy, another Copy of AARP Just Came in the Mail

This month I will no doubt receive yet another copy of AARP. It's ok I suppose - the first two years were distressing! Is it traumatic for families to see older loved ones drink themselves to death after retirement? Is it pushed into denial and rationalized as, "Well mom might as well drink. After all, she's in her 70s?" This attitude has to stop. Alcoholism is a serious disease at any age. Read More

March 30, 2009

The Truth about Self-Medicating Behavior

I cannot believe that any individual starts out drinking or drugging with the intention of becoming addicted. However, people obviously do become addicted - be it genetic, environmental, or more likely a combination of both. We must accept the fact that each one of us wants to feel the best we can and not mistake a momentary high for this process. Read More

March 17, 2009

It Is Often The Little Pressures That Add Up!

Devices are supposed to make communication faster and simpler. Yet, they can sometimes put us on edge. Read More

March 10, 2009

Dog Has Always Been Man’s (And Woman’s) Best Friend

The great psychologist, Carl Rogers, was known for his concept of unconditional positive regard. Think of a self-help group like AA and the rooms are filled with it. Perhaps there is no better example of unconditional positive regard then that which your dog exhibits. Read More

February 19, 2009

Give The Kid A Chance

Marijuana is a dangerous drug and even gold medal winners who are not as old as my washing machine make mistakes. Read More

January 28, 2009

Recovery Is Still Possible in Challenging Times

These days, I am very mindful that while we begin 2009 with hope - tremendous uncertainty and fear seems to lurk around the corner. No wonder that first drink or drug is taken to self-medicate. Read More

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