Difference Between Drug Dependence and Addiction

Drug dependence and drug addiction often go hand-in-hand, but they actually refer to two different things. Dependence is a chemical phenomenon, referring to the body’s reliance on a substance to continue normal functioning, while drug addiction is both physiological and psychological, and is more life-threatening. If you or someone you love is struggling with drug dependence or addiction, help and healing are always available at Coalition Recovery.

Determining whether a client is suffering from drug dependence or drug addiction is vital as it will impact the type of recovery treatment offered. By assessing the client’s case history, the severity of withdrawal symptoms, and general lifestyle, doctors and therapists can choose the most efficient recovery plan. To know more about Coalition Recovery’s customized addiction recovery programs and comprehensive aftercare planning, call us at 888.707.2873.

The Differences Between Drug Dependence and Drug Addiction

Drug dependence and drug addiction are not terms to be used interchangeably. The differences between them are outlined below.

1. Dependence Is a Chemical Phenomenon

Dependence refers only to the body’s reliance on the chemical substance so as to continue functioning normally. The body may quickly develop a tolerance to a drug and thereby crave more and more of it. If these cravings are not met, painful withdrawal symptoms might appear, making it difficult for the person to continue their normal lives.

2. Addiction Affects Both Physical Health and Mental Well-Being

Chemical dependence is just one aspect of drug addiction. When struggling with a substance use disorder, the client may experience a loss of control. Their behavior and personality may be altered, and they may fail their work and family obligations as well. They may become secretive, aloof and lie, cheat or engage in illegal activity in order to obtain the drug. Addiction affects not just the individual, but their social circle as well.

3. Dependence and Addiction Are Treated Differently

Dependence may be treated with medication, readjusting dosages until the body can function normally without the drug. But addiction treatment requires not only addressing the physical signs of dependence, but also the co-occurring mental disorders as well. In addition to medication, it is mandatory for those struggling with addiction to attend therapy sessions, support group meetings, family counseling, and partake in holistic activities to treat any underlying issues.

In certain cases, chemical dependence may not require any treatment. People with certain health issues or heart ailments may be on medication for the rest of their lives, and their bodies may not be able to regulate or function without those chemicals. But dependence as a result of a short-term medication or recreational consumption of substances requires treatment.

Such forms of chemical dependence may also lead to addiction, which is more debilitating. Those who are struggling with drug addiction may engage in self-destructive actions, be more prone to accidents and/or criminal behavior, and require immediate crisis intervention and medical help.

4. Addiction May Not Just Refer to Drugs or Alcohol

Addictive behavior may not always be due to chemical substances. An individual may become addicted to anything — gambling, sex, social media — which may disrupt their life. Treatment for addiction includes not just the detox process, but also identifying toxic thought patterns, making healthy lifestyle changes, and developing effective coping mechanisms.

Despite similar end results, they may have different causes. Those struggling with addiction might have deep-seated mental health issues, past trauma, or a history of substance use among their family and friends.

Start Your Addiction Recovery Journey Today with Coalition Recovery

For the last six years, Coalition Recovery has helped countless individuals in Tampa Bay who are struggling with drug dependence and/or addiction to recover and live healthier and happier lives.

Using a combination of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), evidence-based therapies (EBT), and a variety of holistic options, our stellar staff works with each client to come up with a personalized treatment plan that prioritizes their physical health and mental health ailments equally. Moreover, with our comprehensive aftercare planning, our clients can enjoy ongoing support even after the initial phase of treatment is complete, so as to minimize chances of a relapse.

Get started on your addiction recovery journey today by calling us at 888.707.2873.