Being Sober: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting to, Getting Through, and Living in Recovery, Revised and Expanded

by Harry Harootunian, Steven Tyler (Contributor)

Featured on The Dr. Oz Show in Special Addiction Episode with Steven TylerThe disease of addiction affects 1 out of 10 people in the United States, and is a devastating—often, fatal—illness. Now, from the physician director of the renowned Betty Ford Center, comes a step-by-step plan with a realistic "one-day-at-a-time" approach to a disease that so often seems insurmountable. With a focus on reclaiming the power that comes from a life free of dependency, Being Sober walks readers through the many phases of addiction and recovery without judgment or the overly "cultish" language of traditional 12-step plans.It also addresses the latest face of this the "highly functioning" addict, or someone who is still able to achieve personal and professional success even as they battle a drug or alcohol problem. Dr. Haroutunian tackles this provocative issue head-on, offering new insight into why you don't have to "bottom out" to get help. Dr. Haroutunian is himself a recovering alcoholic and knows firsthand the challenges of sobriety. His background and expertise in the field of alcohol and drug treatment give him a powerful edge and perspective that is unparalleled in his field.With a foreword written by Steven Tyler, Being Sober uses clear, straightforward language and offers a proven path toward an emotional sobriety and a rewarding new life based on gratitude, dignity, and self-respect.

Genres: Health, Addiction, Self Help, Nonfiction, Psychology

256 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 27, 2013

Reviews

[Amy Poor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meh...

I was hoping for a more scientific and updated approach to recovery than this. It basically relies on the teachings of AA. If that works for you, great! If you are looking for something that is more real world, modern and less spiritually based, you may want to look elsewhere.

[Kade · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very focused on the AA 12 step method, basically claiming that anyone who doesn’t completely give their lives over to the program will be an alcoholic forever. Research doesn’t support that. As someone who has quit drinking without AA, this book re-affirms why I always found AA to be cultish. But if the 12-step approach works for you, then that’s great. It just isn’t for me, or many others I know.

That said, the book is easy to read, and for someone who wants to find out more about 12 step philosophy, it’s a worthwhile read.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Indispensable guide to recovery. Excellent in audio format and I will also purchase in book form for future reference. Highly recommended.

[Madelyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was overall good. I was hoping for more research for writing papers as I’m a student in clinical psychology. It was more meant for people who are currently recovering versus people who are trying to assist recovering addicts. I would say though if you are recovering addict of any sort this book is very helpful and gives the first initial key steps.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book put the 12 steps into a context that I could finally understand. I loved the fact that Dr. Harry also shared so much of his journey. This book exceeded my expectations!

[Brigitte · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book would be really great for someone on board with AA messaging/lifestyle.

[Karen Flatley · Rating 2 out of 5]

Author states I can't even use Tums or Advil anymore. I have arthritis....

[Matt Hughes · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good primer on sobriety and recovery. I liked his analysis of the 12 steps, with the underlying principles and character defects. The author is a Doctor working with the Betty Ford Clinic, yet he relates a lot of his prior history and personal stories throughout. His discussions of 12 step programs and their workings are spot-on. Even with some time sober, this was a good refresher for me.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is must read to anyone attempting, seeking or involve din active recovery. It can be applied to any addiction. I found the book to be a helpful resource and guide to AA, explained the 12 steps of AA in simple and clear terminology. So helpful that I made some notes and cannot wait to start working the steps!

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably the best book written by a medical man who also was a high functioning alcoholic. It woke me up. Hartounion says it straight up.

[Mark · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved his explanation of addiction as a disease as well as the Twelve Steps.

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative, inspiring, and easy to read. Great book for someone beginning (or thinking about beginning) a journey towards sobriety.

[Matthewphoenix]

Haroutunian's book is, in essence, an advertisement for the Betty Ford Center, and Alcoholics Annonymous in general. After his 5th DUI he finally turned to treatment. I got this book because I wanted to know more about addiction as a scientifically defined disease, which is thoughtfully covered in several chapters. As a non-theistic person, the prayers are a little excessive, but if you're into that, good for you.