When it comes to seeking help for your or your loved one’s issues with drugs and alcohol, it can be beneficial to understand the difference between addiction and dependence. But how are these terms different? And what are the nuances between the two?
The short answer is, drug use can lead to drug addiction (often a mental health crisis), and eventually drug dependence (usually a physical dependence on a specific substance). Distinguishing between the two is important for treatment — which means you may need help understanding addiction vs dependence.
This article addresses the nuance behind addiction versus dependence, then clarifies the distinction between these two terms. It also explains how to get help with both of those issues, starting with a proper treatment center such as The Lakes Treatment Center.
What is Addiction?
Addiction is a complex and multifaceted issue that impacts millions of individuals and families around the world. At its core, addiction is defined by compulsive behaviors, such as the repeated use of a substance or engagement in a particular activity, despite experiencing negative effects on health, relationships, or daily life.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV), addiction can develop due to a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Mental health issues may play a significant role in the development and progression of addiction, making it essential to address both substance use and underlying mental health concerns.
Thankfully, the National Institute on Drug Abuse emphasizes that understanding addiction is the first step toward effective treatment, and with proper support, individuals can overcome substance use disorders and reclaim their lives.
Signs of Addiction
One of the most difficult things about addiction is that it can be hard to tell if someone is struggling with it. There are still several signs of addictive behavior to search for, however, which usually involve compulsive actions and a loss of control.
These include:
- Starting to miss work, school, or other important events
- Decline in performance
- Withdrawn from friends and family
- Change in appearance
- Becoming more secretive and irritable
- Difficulty sleeping
- Behavioral addiction, such as gambling disorder, is characterized by compulsive behaviors that are not directly related to substance use but can be just as disruptive to daily life.
If you notice these or other changes in someone you care about, it may be time to have a conversation about addiction.
What is Dependence?
Substance dependence can take several forms, each with its own unique characteristics and challenges.
The first form is physical dependence, which occurs when the body adapts to taking drugs. This may lead to withdrawal symptoms if use is reduced or stopped, such as issues with the central nervous system. This type of dependence is common with prescription opioids and alcohol and may require medical supervision during withdrawal.
Psychological dependence, on the other hand, involves an emotional or mental dependence on a substance or activity where individuals may feel unable to cope or function without it. For example, in the midst of America’s opioid crisis, a person may feel compelled to continue their opioid use when in the presence of a trigger (such as friends or family, or recovering from mental health issues such as depression).
According to The National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, around 9.5 million (or 3.8% of) addicted adults struggle with both a substance abuse disorder (SUD) and mental illness. This demonstrates how many drugs lead to complex mental and physical dependence, including opioid addiction, alcohol abuse, and more.
Signs of Dependence
As mentioned, dependence refers to the progression from physical dependence to addiction, but they are distinct issues. As the body starts to rely on a substance, higher doses may be needed to achieve the same effect. Taking a higher dose over time can increase the risk of developing dependence, as well as severe withdrawal symptoms when stopping some medications suddenly.
Some common signs of substance dependence include:
- Loss of control over the use of the substance
- Withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped
- Higher tolerance (needing to use more and more of the substance to get the same effect)
- Inability to stop using certain medications, such as opioids, antidepressants, or other substances
Keep in mind that being physically dependent on a medication does not necessarily mean someone is addicted. You may physically require a medication to function while lacking the mental and emotional characteristics of dependence (think caffeine withdrawals).
Addiction vs Dependence
While you may hear addiction and dependence used interchangeably, these terms are not the same.
Drug and alcohol dependence refers to the physical symptoms that occur when someone stops using the substance, such as withdrawal symptoms. Drug dependence is a mental or physical adaptation that can occur without addiction. For example, a key indicator of being physically dependent is experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms.
Addiction, on the other hand, is a much more complex condition. It can also present in a severe form, requiring more intensive intervention. It is classified as one of several mental disorders and often co-occurs with other psychological conditions. According to many studies in Scientific American, some individuals are at higher risk for developing addiction due to genetic, social, or behavioral factors.
To summarize: drug addiction is an emotional pull to continue with substance abuse. On the other hand, drug dependence typically refers to a physical dependence, including tolerance to larger amounts of a drug.
Ways to Tell the Difference Between Dependence and Addiction
Let’s take a look at a few different ways to discern between drug addiction and drug dependence:
- Dependence refers to the physical or psychological need for a substance or activity, often resulting in withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped. For example, someone with signs of physical dependence may have a tolerance to drugs or alcohol and require large amounts to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
- Addiction is marked by compulsive behaviors and continued use despite harmful consequences. The addicted person may be diagnosed with substance use disorder and suffer from depression while attempting to heal from drug abuse.
- The World Health Organization defines dependence as a state of adaptation that can be physical or psychological. On the other hand, it characterizes addiction by a loss of control, social impairment, and risky behaviors.
- Behavior is a key feature distinguishing addiction from dependence, as addiction usually involves uncontrollable and compulsive actions. Addicted individuals experience changes in the brain that affect behavior and self-control.
Keep in mind that different substances may have different effects on addiction and dependence. For example, opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder may result in different types of physical dependence and addiction symptoms. That’s why many health care providers offer personalized treatments to address dependence, addiction, and their effects on the brain.
Seeking Help for Drug and Alcohol Abuse in Copperopolis, CA
It can be overwhelming when seeking help with drug or alcohol addictions and dependencies. It’s important to know that you are not alone and recovery is possible.
At The Lakes Treatment Center, we understand that no two recovery journeys are identical. We know that everyone who comes to us has their own unique story and experiences, which is why we offer fully customized treatment programs.
- A variety of treatments are available, including therapy, medications, and community support.
- Medications may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms and support long-term recovery.
- Support groups provide ongoing encouragement and connection.
The Lakes Treatment Center believes in a whole-person approach to recovery. We want you to feel a positive change in your life on a physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual level.
For all of your addiction treatment needs and questions, contact The Lakes Treatment Center at (209) 309-3573.
