Psychological Dependence an overview

Addiction, or the compulsive use of a substance like drugs or alcohol, can cause changes in the brain, including areas critical for judgment, decision making, behavior control, memory and learning. Addiction can also influence the part of the brain that controls pleasurable feelings, which can create a reward response or psychological dependence on a substance or activity. When the addictive substance is not supplied, an individual who has already formed a psychological dependence will experience physical withdrawal symptoms. Your confusion is understandable as alcohol use disorder can be BOTH a habitual (psychological) and a chemical (physical) addiction.

• If you are physically dependent on a substance, you may first need to detoxify before starting other treatments.
• In some cancer patients drug-seeking behaviour is seen because of unrelieved pain and not psychological dependence.
• It’s important to remember that you can recover from substance use disorder, whether you notice it during the dependency stage or when you’re already addicted.
• They can use these patterns to help them move forward in the process of recovery.

The psychological addiction process starts when the addictive agent activates the pleasure center in the brain. As a result, the person wants to recreate the same pleasurable feelings by using the specific substance again. In other words, the brain’s biology plays a crucial role in the psychological dependence on alcohol development of psychological addiction. More precisely, upon taking a drug or substance, the activation of the brain’s nucleus accumbens ensues. Psychological dependence is a change in emotional state that occurs after using a substance or engaging in a behavior over a period of time.

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Furthermore, the brain and body don’t feel “rewarded” until they receive the substance. Treatment for psychological dependence may include therapy, support groups, and medication. The main physical addiction vs. psychological addiction difference here is that physical addiction shows the body’s biological and chemical dependence on the addictive agent.

These changes interfere with other aspects of life, including work, sleep, social activities, relationships, etc. In order for addiction treatment to be effective, patients must receive treatment for their physical and psychological symptoms. By attending a residential rehab program, you will be able to confront your addiction, learn how to manage your symptoms, and gain life-long support that will be there for you throughout your sobriety. Nexus prides itself on providing customized treatment plans for all of our clients.

Dependence is a Struggle Regardless of Type

Physical dependence and psychological dependence are both critical factors in addiction. In most cases, people addicted to drugs or alcohol will experience both types of dependence. If you or someone you love is struggling with physical or psychological dependence, we can help. At Genesis Recovery, we specialize in treating all types of addiction, including dual diagnosis disorders.

These also include regular counseling sessions as well as support groups. Since dependence often leads to addiction, the latter is considered more dangerous. Each of these chemicals has a positive effect on a person’s body and mind.

Addiction vs Dependence

Symptoms peak at about 24–48 hours after withdrawal, with restlessness, irritability, and insomnia, as well as severe sneezing, weakness, anxiety, and depression. Other symptoms include dilated pupils, anorexia, piloerection, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pyrexia, hypertension, muscle cramps, dehydration, and weight loss [141]. Understanding the difference between psychological and physical dependence, as well as how they both relate to addiction, can be helpful if you’re concerned with a loved one’s drug or alcohol use. Recognizing that many factors are involved in addictive behavior may help breed compassion as you assist a friend or family member on their road to recovery. Remember that addiction is treatable, and the more you understand the disease, the more you may be able to support a loved one as they go through treatment.