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Why Cannabis Is Not a Harm‑Reduction Medication for AUD or SUDA
Emily Kurnell Emily Kurnell

Why Cannabis Is Not a Harm‑Reduction Medication for AUD or SUDA

In recent years, cannabis has been promoted in some circles as a “safer alternative” to alcohol or other drugs. The idea sounds appealing: replace a harmful substance with something perceived as more natural or less dangerous. But from the standpoint of an addiction specialist, this approach is not only misleading—it can derail recovery and prolong suffering.

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The Grip of Today’s Cannabis: Understanding Addiction and the Path to Freedom
Emily Kurnell Emily Kurnell

The Grip of Today’s Cannabis: Understanding Addiction and the Path to Freedom

By: An Addiction Specialist

Cannabis has changed dramatically over the past decade. What was once a mild, low‑potency plant has evolved into a highly engineered substance with THC concentrations far beyond what previous generations ever encountered. As potency has risen, so have the rates of dependence, withdrawal, and cannabis‑induced mental health crises.

In my practice, I see more people than ever struggling with cannabis addiction—often shocked that something they believed was “safe” has taken such a powerful hold on their lives.

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Chronic Cannabis and Pornography Use: The Brain, the Trap, and the Path to Recovery
Emily Kurnell Emily Kurnell

Chronic Cannabis and Pornography Use: The Brain, the Trap, and the Path to Recovery

Addiction isn’t always about hard drugs or alcohol. Two of the most underestimated yet deeply impactful struggles I see in my practice are chronic cannabis use and compulsive pornography consumption. On their own, each can alter brain chemistry and derail lives. Together, they create a cycle of sedation and stimulation that hijacks the brain’s reward system, leaving individuals trapped in patterns that feel impossible to break.

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