Substance abuse affects the lives millions of Americans every year. Many people are diagnosed with a substance abuse problem but are unaware of what they truly mean. Is there a difference between physical dependence vs. addiction? It is very common for people to say someone is addicted to a drug. Physical dependence and addiction can go hand-in-hand, but there is a level of difference between them. If you are using drugs or alcohol, and you find yourself needing to do so on a constant basis, it is important to seek help. Our team at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida is available to work with you every step of the way.
Physical Dependence Vs. Addiction – What’s the Difference?
These terms can be used to mean very different things. Addiction is defined is the compulsive use of a drug or alcohol even though you know that doing so can create harmful results. A person who has an addiction has an inability to stop using that drug. They cannot meet responsibilities at home, work, or school on a steady basis. In some situations, tolerance and withdrawal can occur, too.
Tolerance refers to a person’s needs to keep using more of the same drug to get the desired outcome or feeling. Over time, the user requires more and more of the drug to get that same desired effect. Withdrawal occurs when you feel pain and anguish when you stop using the drug of choice. In both cases, this can be a component of addiction.
Physical dependence is a term used to refer to that tolerance when the body adapts to the drug you are using. Since it needs more of the drug to get the desired effect, when a person does not get it, withdrawal can occur. Physical dependence can occur even if a person is using drugs as prescribed by a doctor. Physical dependence itself is not the same as addiction. However, both tend to occur at the same time.
Which Do You Have?
When you consider physical dependence vs. addiction, it can be difficult to know the differences when you are in the midst of it. Generally, if you have withdrawal and tolerance to the drug, that’s an indication of dependence. Addiction takes it further. The drug is now impacting your life and you continue to use it even though you know it can cause harmful effects. It is important to seek out a medical professional if you are concerned about your own or a loved one’s substance abuse. If you recognize any of the signs of addiction, getting help is one of the first things you should do.
What Can Be Done About It?
A person with either physical dependence or addiction needs help. Both situations require support. Our team is here to help. Our residential detox center helps to break that physical dependence, giving your body the ability to function normally again. We may recommend additional treatment to deal with your addiction such as:
- Medical detox support
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Holistic detox support
- Relapse prevention tools
- Individual therapy and treatment
- Group therapy and treatment
The type of care right for you depends on many factors. What is most important is the realization that you need help. Then turn to our professionals to learn more about the vast number of supportive solutions we can offer to help you.
Explore the Steps to Recovery at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida
When you consider the differences in physical dependence versus addiction, one thing is important to remember. While different, both require treatment. Our team at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida provides that type of treatment for you. Call us at 866.294.5306 today for immediate help.
