Dependence can become an addiction the longer the individual uses or abuses the substance for its effects. The most common types of substance addiction are drug addiction and alcohol addiction. People with substance addiction issues often continue abusing a substance despite the harmful consequences it has on their https://www.sjdcaboairporttaxi.com/celebrating-my-1-year-sobriety-the-best-gifts-that-2/ lives. Like your brain, your body can quickly get used to any drugs8 you take. If you use a drug often, you’ll need higher doses to feel the same effects. For example, it takes just 2-3 doses of opioids9 for some people to develop a tolerance.

What Is the Difference Between Substance Abuse and Substance Dependence?

Addiction, on the other hand, is a complex mental health condition where the addict struggles to control their behavior towards a substance. If a healthcare provider does not address dependence, the individual may eventually develop an addiction. Opioid-based pharmaceuticals, often used for pain management, can present a complex picture of both Sober living home dependence and addiction, as both can develop even with proper use. The body adapts to opioids, leading to tolerance and potential withdrawal symptoms when their use is reduced. However, addiction can also result from the potentially-euphoric side effects of opioids—be they prescribed or purchased illegally—leading to compulsive usage and other harmful consequences. Tolerance can be a critical factor in both dependence and the development of substance use disorder.

Signs and Symptoms

Interestingly, you can also be addicted to a drug without being physically dependent on it. Cocaine addiction causes no major withdrawal symptoms, but still prompts compulsive behaviors and neurological changes—similar to gambling or internet addictions. With addiction, there are changes occurring in the reward pathway of drug dependence vs addiction your brain that cause compulsive drug-seeking behavior.

Is substance dependence commonly known as addiction?

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• While physical dependence primarily involves physiological changes and withdrawal symptoms, psychological dependence focuses on the emotional and mental aspects of reliance.

According to a 2021 research article, healthcare professionals often misunderstand them, which can lead to misdiagnosis. This knowledge can help you better understand your or your loved one’s condition. Addiction not only rips apart a life, it does the same thing to the relationships and loved ones held most dear by the addict. All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional. Change your life with Rehubs, creating the path for a healthier, happier and more fulfilling life. If there are any concerns about content we have published, please reach out to us at