So why do some organizations scrap the word “addiction” from their vocabulary? The minds behind the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) find the term carries too much negative connotation and is ambiguous. The World Health Organization also wanted to replace the medical designation of “addiction” with https://financeinquirer.com/top-5-advantages-of-staying-in-a-sober-living-house/ the word “dependence” back in 1964 (which probably contributed to the confusion). Dr. Ashish Bhatt, MD explains the differences between physical dependency and addiction. Understanding the distinction between these terms is important because it can help individuals recognise the severity of their addiction or dependence.

Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts

  • Seeking help from a professional treatment provider such as CATCH Recovery is the first step towards positive change.
  • Sometimes, severe withdrawal symptoms require monitoring from doctors in a hospital setting.
  • The terms “addiction” and “dependence” can seem similar, but they are different.
  • For example, if a person is arrested for using drugs and leaves jail to pick up more, they’ve likely developed an addiction.

For example, if you take a sedative to sleep, it may work very well at the first dose. When you first start drinking alcohol, it may have taken only a few drinks for you to feel drunk. But over time, you may need more drinks, more often, for the same effect.

Treatment for Addiction and Dependence

In the next section, we’ll explore how to determine if you have an addiction or dependence and what steps you can take to get help. Finally, there’s the myth that if you relapse after beating your addiction, you have failed. Just like with other diseases, sometimes you need multiple treatments or repeat treatments. APA’s Division 28 promotes teaching, research, and dissemination of information regarding the effects of drugs on behavior.

  • Rather, the manual defines substance abuse disorders as mild, moderate, or severe.
  • Professional treatment is highly recommended for those exhibiting two or more symptoms of addiction or dependence.
  • Understanding the difference between these terms is crucial in recognising and treating substance use disorders.

Management and Treatment

You may assume that certain substances are more addictive than others, and that is partially true, Mr. Kump says. However, treatment programs occur in various settings for different lengths of time. However, the desire to avoid withdrawal is what can eventually lead to addiction. The longer a person uses a drug, the more likely their dependency will become an addiction. Addiction encompasses both a mental and physical reliance on a given substance.

  • Recovered is not a medical, healthcare or therapeutic services provider and no medical, psychiatric, psychological or physical treatment or advice is being provided by Recovered.
  • Dependence situations demand the need for skilled therapists, counselors, and medical practitioners.
  • Effective programs usually include many components, designed to help the individual stop using drugs, maintain a drug-free lifestyle, and fulfill their obligations to their family and in the workplace.

The Difference between Dependence and Addiction

When addicted to a substance, a person cannot stop using it despite the negative consequences it has on their life. Addiction is a disease characterized by behavioral issues, and dependence refers to a physical reliance on a substance. The two conditions often occur at the same time, but a person can be dependent on a substance without being addicted to it. Detoxification is often recommended for those physically dependent on a drug, followed by therapy and education to address the underlying causes of addiction.

  • However, there are clear differences between the two terms, several of which deal with the chemical effects that happen to addicted persons.
  • One of the brain areas still maturing during adolescence is the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain that allows people to assess situations, make sound decisions, and keep emotions and desires under control.
  • Recognizing the difference between an addiction and substance dependence can help to better understand the nature of addiction.
  • Users can become addicted to more than one substance, and they can also develop addictions to sex, gambling, food, porn, love, and technology.

Misdiagnosis of addictive disorders can lead to a cascade of negative outcomes, including stigma, discontinuation of needed medications, undue scrutiny of both patients and physicians, and even criminal consequences. It is hardly surprising that physicians frequently mislabel patients when the ICD terms used to code for addiction are themselves misleading. ICD codes have not been updated to reflect current understanding of addiction, unlike those in the DSM-5. Tolerance and withdrawal symptoms are common in both physical dependence and addiction. Seeking professional treatment is recommended for those experiencing two or more symptoms of substance use disorder.

addiction vs dependence

What are the signs of addiction?

Addiction occurs when people continue to compulsively use a drug despite harmful consequences. The term addiction is used to describe compulsive drug-seeking behaviors that continue in spite of negative outcomes, but it is important to note that Top 5 Advantages of Staying in a Sober Living House addiction is not considered an official diagnosis in the DSM-5. If you believe you have an addiction, it’s never too late to look for help. Working with a health care professional will allow you to explore the options to treat your addiction.