Differences Between Substance Abuse, Dependence, & Addiction

Dependence, on the other hand, refers to a physiological state in which the body adapts to the presence of a substance and requires it to function normally. It is characterized by the development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when the substance is reduced or discontinued. Individuals with addiction often Addiction vs Dependence: What is the Difference? experience intense cravings for the substance and may prioritize obtaining and using it over other aspects of their lives. Addiction can have severe physical, psychological, and social consequences, impacting various areas of an individual’s life, including relationships, work, and overall well-being.

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• If you think your substance use is causing problems in your life, help is available.
• For example, if you take a sedative to sleep, it may work very well at the first dose.
• If a person uses many drugs and develops a physical dependence on these drugs, that person is usually described as dependent.
• Dependence is characterized by the symptoms of tolerance and withdrawal.
• As your substance abuse becomes more frequent, you increase the likelihood of developing dependence, which can lead to addiction.
• While a person who is dependent on a drug needs it to feel normal, it’s not creating a lot of chaos in their lives.

A person who is chemically dependent on a drug might show different physiological changes around chronic usage, tolerance levels, and even withdrawal symptoms. Addiction often stems from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and personal factors. It can be viewed as a chronic brain disorder that alters the reward system, leading to the prioritization of the addictive substance or behavior over other aspects of life. Addiction is a chronic condition, meaning it tends to persist over time and requires ongoing management. Hence, debunking common misconceptions about addiction can be helpful in understanding the condition better and addressing it effectively.

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• The biggest difference between addiction and dependence is functionality.
• Let’s examine how the world views addiction versus dependence in relation to substance abuse disorders.
• Addiction can impact every aspect of your life, starting with your mental health.10 Substances change your brain, and might contribute to co-occurring disorders like anxiety and depression.
• Since he can’t stop even though he wants to, his dependence has turned into an addiction.

At Zinnia Health, inpatient and outpatient programs are available to meet your needs and circumstances. Please get in touch with Zinnia Health to learn more about the available treatment options and  levels of care. Our team is available 24/7, ready to help you navigate your road to sobriety. Addiction and dependence are complex issues that are often misunderstood and stigmatized.

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Addiction vs. dependence

Addiction vs Dependence: What’s the Difference?

Substance Abuse Disorder