A lot of people have a misconception about chemical dependency and drug addiction. Contrary to popular opinion, they are not the same thing. Why are the differences significant? When comparing these two aspects of drug abuse, it’s important to use the right terminology. Understanding the differences between the chemical dependency definition and a full-blown addiction will play a role in getting someone the proper treatment when necessary.
The Chemical Dependency Definition
The chemical dependency definition describes how the body reacts to being exposed to a particular substance or substances over a period of time. Under most circumstances, the body will begin to develop a physical dependence or biological need for the substance the individual is using or abusing. Any attempts to suddenly stop using the substance will most likely lead to some type of withdrawal issues. So far, this would seem to describe both chemical dependency and drug addiction accurately.
However, that’s where things go in different directions. Once an individual with a chemical dependency issue clears withdrawal, they are usually able to revert back to a normal existence. They don’t really carry forward with a continuing desire to use the drug of choice. For the drug addict, the reality is entirely different. The drug addict will continue obsessing over the desire to use their substance of choice. Without a complete drug addiction treatment plan, they will most likely fail at staying away from their addiction.
Getting Treatment
While an addiction will typically require an extensive drug treatment program, the chemical dependency treatment approach is different. While therapy would be quite beneficial, the person with a chemical dependency problem can usually get back to normal after a detox program. At detox facilities like our Serenity House Detox & Recovery centers, clinicians make their treatment evaluations during the detox process. If a patient shows signs of normalcy after detox, an outpatient treatment might be all it takes to keep them from addiction. That’s certainly not the case with a person dealing with an addiction.
More About Serenity House Detox & Recovery
At our facilities in Fort Lauderdale and Jupiter, we offer a wide range of custom detox programs. We treat all kinds of patients who have been abusing all kinds of substances. Of course, we do more than that. As time allows, we actually start the counseling process to get a better idea of what type of therapy a patient might need. Here’s a brief listing of our detox services:
- Detox program for men
- Detox program for women
- Young adult detox program
- Opiate detox program
- Detox for alcohol
No matter your substance of choice, you do not have to continue your fight of addiction. For more information about addiction and the chemical dependency definition, call us at Serenity House Detox & Recovery. The number is 866-294-5306.
