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Drawn to the Flame: When You're Attracted to People Struggling with Addiction
Emily Kurnell Emily Kurnell

Drawn to the Flame: When You're Attracted to People Struggling with Addiction

It’s a phenomenon more common than most realize: individuals who find themselves repeatedly drawn to partners battling alcohol or substance addiction. Not just once, but as a recurring pattern. As an addiction specialist, I can say—this isn’t about “bad luck” or chance. There's often a deeply rooted psychological landscape behind the attraction. And most importantly, healing is possible.

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When Love Hurts: Breaking the Chains of Co-Dependency in Addiction
Emily Kurnell Emily Kurnell

When Love Hurts: Breaking the Chains of Co-Dependency in Addiction

Addiction is not simply a matter of poor choices or moral failing. It is a progressive, life-threatening disease that hijacks brain chemistry, distorts reality, and robs people of their willpower, relationships, and often—tragically—their lives. When someone we love is drowning in substance or behavioural addiction, our first instinct is to throw them a lifeline made of compassion, protection, and unconditional support. But sometimes, that very lifeline can become a chain.

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When Love Hurts: Breaking the Chains of Co-Dependency in Addiction
Emily Kurnell Emily Kurnell

When Love Hurts: Breaking the Chains of Co-Dependency in Addiction

Addiction is not simply a matter of poor choices or moral failing. It is a progressive, life-threatening disease that hijacks brain chemistry, distorts reality, and robs people of their willpower, relationships, and often—tragically—their lives. When someone we love is drowning in substance or behavioural addiction, our first instinct is to throw them a lifeline made of compassion, protection, and unconditional support. But sometimes, that very lifeline can become a chain.

Read More