Drug addiction, more appropriately called substance use disorder (SUD), is a condition impacting the function of the brain. It leads to an inability to control the use of a substance, whether alcohol or drugs, even in people who understand the risks and want to stop. There is a difference between addiction and dependency, and though both require treatment, knowing what type of treatment is best for you depends on the symptoms you have.
At Iron Bridge Recovery Center, our non-judgmental, drug and alcohol treatment center in Richmond, Virginia, is a resource for healing. When you contact us, we provide you with the support you need to heal.
Addiction vs Dependency: What Is the Difference
Though the terms are often used interchangeably, addiction and dependency are two different ailments.
What Is Addiction?
Addiction is a chronic health condition in which a person struggles to stop using a substance or engaging in some type of behavior that leads to a specific outcome. Addiction can cause:
- Compulsive behavior
- Cravings for substances
- Physical, structural changes in the brain
What Is Dependence?
Physical dependence occurs when your body adapts to the substance and, ultimately, needs it to be there to operate normally. When not present, your body and brain work overtime to make you find that substance often by causing withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop using the substance.
A person with dependency may feel indifferent towards the drug they are using. That is, you are no longer using it to get high or to take the edge off. You are using it, and it becomes your body as adapted to it, and you are experiencing intense negative effects when you try to stop using it.
Symptoms of Addiction and Dependence
Both addiction and dependence require treatment for long-term recovery and well-being. If you have any of the following symptoms, which can occur in both conditions, seek professional guidance to start on the path toward recovery.
- Needing to use the substance often. For some, this could be daily or even more than once a day.
- Needing more of the substance. You may find that you need to use more of the substance over time to get the same results. You’re tolerant of lower doses.
- Intense urges are your priority. You feel the intensity of cravings that become the most important thing during your day. You cannot block out the desire to seek the substance.
- Prioritizing having a supply. You feel as if you simply cannot go without the substance and therefore work to have a supply of it available to you.
- Poor decision-making. Most people using a substance to this point know that there are negative consequences, such as being unable to pay the rent or buy groceries, yet they continue to use the substance.
- Reckless actions increase. You may do things that you would never have done before because of your cravings and need to use the substance. That includes driving intoxicated or engaging in unprotected sex.
- Spending time getting the drug. A portion of your day is nearly always focused on securing more of the substance. You may not go to school or work, and you may miss family obligations that have long been important to you.
- Trying to stop and failing. Those who are facing substance use disorder often find themselves wanting to stop using the substance but failing to do so. It seems too hard.
- Family telling you that there is a problem. Even if you think you are still in control and can stop when you want to, you feel like everyone is on your case.
- Health complications are developing. Over time, hygiene is less important. Eating meals that are healthy becomes a non-priority. You may develop a variety of health complications.
If you are experiencing any of these signs and symptoms of addiction and dependency, it is time to seek treatment. At Iron Bridge, we offer strategies to help you overcome these struggles in a way that actually works.
Do You Need Detox?
If you are facing dependency in which you feel physical pain and discomfort when you stop using the substance, a medical detox program may be the best first step for you. It is a safe way to break that dependence and give your brain the time it needs to heal.
Turn to Iron Bridge for Immediate Support
At Iron Bridge Recovery Center, we offer a comprehensive drug and alcohol treatment program in Chester, VA, designed to provide you with relief from the symptoms you have and a strong future. Contact us now to learn more about the strategies available to help you regain control.
