Blog

Chronic Marijuana Use & Binge Drinking: A Dangerous Duo
Emily Kurnell Emily Kurnell

Chronic Marijuana Use & Binge Drinking: A Dangerous Duo

As an addiction specialist, I’ve worked with countless individuals who believed marijuana was harmless—“just a plant,” “not addictive,” or “better than alcohol.” While it’s true that marijuana doesn’t carry the same overdose risk as opioids or alcohol, chronic daily use can quietly erode physical, mental, and emotional health. And when binge drinking enters the picture, the consequences can compound in ways that are often underestimated.

Read More
Beyond Abstinence: A Holistic Path to Healing from Addiction 
Emily Kurnell Emily Kurnell

Beyond Abstinence: A Holistic Path to Healing from Addiction 

Abstinence from alcohol, drugs, or destructive behaviors is a powerful and courageous step—but it’s not the final destination. Addiction is not just a physical habit that disappears with detox and 30 days of sobriety. It is a bio-psycho-social-spiritual illness that requires ongoing care, reflection, and reinvention. As an addiction specialist, I’ve seen countless individuals stop using substances only to find themselves overwhelmed by unresolved emotions, unstable relationships, or a lack of purpose. 

Read More
30 Days of Abstinence: A Reset for Your Brain and Body
Emily Kurnell Emily Kurnell

30 Days of Abstinence: A Reset for Your Brain and Body

Taking a 30-day break from a substance or behavior is more than just an exercise in self-control—it’s a vital opportunity for dopamine restoration, mental clarity, and physical renewal. Whether it’s alcohol, nicotine, social media, or even compulsive behaviors like gambling, committing to a month of abstinence can create powerful shifts that set the stage for lasting recovery. 

Read More
Addiction and Suicide: Understanding the Connection and Paths to Recovery
Emily Kurnell Emily Kurnell

Addiction and Suicide: Understanding the Connection and Paths to Recovery

Suicidal thoughts and attempts are deeply intertwined with addiction, creating a dangerous cycle that can feel impossible to escape. Whether struggling with substance abuse or behavioral addictions, individuals often experience overwhelming despair, leading to suicidal ideation. While addiction itself increases the risk of suicide, newly sober individuals may also face intense emotional distress, making early recovery a particularly vulnerable time. As an addiction specialist, I want to highlight the devastating link between addiction and suicide, the reasons behind these struggles, and ways to find hope and healing

Read More