We all know people who overdo things. I often see clients who are concerned about their loved ones and wonder if excessive habits such as smoking or drinking could open the door to an addiction to something harmful. Indeed, the … Continue reading →

A reader emails that her husband harps on her to moderate her drinking, smoking, eating, etc. She knows he loves her, but she worries that his concern for her health isn’t enough to motivate her to restrain herself. She tries … Continue reading →

One of the recurring themes I see here at the beach has to do with people who are newly retired and stressed over what they’re going to do with themselves. Many tell me that they’re not qualified for the jobs … Continue reading →

There’s no escaping it. Spring cleaning time is here, and the perennial question again presents itself: Do you haul even more stuff to the attic or basement — or toss it? Nothing should ‘go to waste,’ right? Wrong! “Wasteful” means … Continue reading →

In his latest book, ‘The Myth of the ‘Out of Character’ Crime,’ clinical psychologist and author Stanton Samenow writes, “No matter how grim the situation, no threat by an authority or anyone else can compel someone to change against his … Continue reading →

English novelist George Eliot wrote, ‘Animals are such agreeable friends — they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.’ In this chatty age when just about anybody, qualified or not, can mount their electronic soapbox and spout off, the quiet … Continue reading →

Regulars here at Life’s a Beach! know that I often describe myself as a cognitive therapist. Has a nice scientific ring to it, don’t you think? Aside from sounding official, just what is this kind of therapy? People ask me, … Continue reading →

It’s often said that you need a license to drive a car, open a business or to serve liquor, but that you don’t need a license to raise a child. Though the word ‘license’ implies some sort of ‘permission,’ the … Continue reading →

An unknown, but apparently bitter person once wrote, ‘Valentine’s Day is when a lot of married people are reminded what a poor shot Cupid really is.’ Though that might be a bit overstated, there are certain conflicts in relationships that … Continue reading →

Have you noticed how we humans tend to value something less if we didn’t work for it or earn it somehow? If you work hard for your car, your house, or success in your job, these things mean a lot … Continue reading →

This may sound strange coming from a therapist, but I’ve come to resent the notion of “self-help” — at least the kind you buy in a bookstore or see on TV talk shows. My primary gripe is with the self-help … Continue reading →

  A Wave reader in West Ocean City writes:   Dear Dr. Hurd, As a mother of three, I was delighted with last week’s article [Lying Can Be Hazardous to your Mental Health, 4/5/06]. I have tried to impress on … Continue reading →