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The terms “addiction” and “dependence” can seem similar, but they are different. Dependence occurs when the body physically relies on a drug. Addiction involves changes in behavior.
A person with an addiction has difficulty not using substances or doing rewarding activities, even if it is harming them.
A person can have an addiction without necessarily having a physical dependence. Similarly, a person can have a physical dependence on a drug without feeling compelled to use it. However, they may still experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it.
In this article, we look at the differences between addiction and dependence and explore definitions, examples, and differences in treatment.
Addiction is a chronic health condition. It occurs when a person has difficulty stopping substance use or engaging in a behavior that provides some type of benefit.
Addiction causes cravings, compulsive behavior, and changes in the brain.
Understanding Addiction
Addiction is not a personality flaw or moral failing. It does not stem from a lack of willpower or a series of bad choices. It is a medical condition that can affect anyone and just like many other illnesses, addiction produces a range of clinical symptoms. There is no shame in suffering from addiction any more than there is for any other illness.3
The term, alcohol use disorder (AUD), represents a spectrum of conditions characterised by a compulsion to consume alcohol, even when it causes negative consequences. Alcohol addiction is on the moderate to severe end of the AUD spectrum.2
If you struggle with addiction, you are not alone. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) recognises substance use disorder (SUD) as a medical condition featuring dependence on a wide range of substances, including alcohol, tobacco and opioids. These substances activate reward centres in the brain, bringing about feelings of pleasure and fuelling addictive behaviours. A SUD can be classified as mild, moderate or severe depending on the number of symptoms an individual experiences. Addictive disorders can affect anyone, irrespective of age, gender, socioeconomic status or cultural background. However, a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors can predispose certain individuals to addiction , as we will see in a later section.
To identify addictive disorders, we need to pay attention to the signs of physical dependence, uncontrolled use and behavioural changes. Many people suffering from addiction also face feelings of guilt, shame, hopelessness and despaired. It is important to remember that addiction is not your fault and that it can be treated and managed successfully with the right help and support.
Understanding what addiction is is the first step towards addressing this condition. By taking the time to learn more, you are already on the right path.
Dependence
Physical dependence is when the body adapts to a substance’s presence. It leads toTrusted Source withdrawal symptoms if usage abruptly ends or is reduced.
Unlike addiction, dependence does not necessarily involve difficulty controlling behavior.
A person may feel indifferent toward the drug they are taking. But because the body has adapted to its presence, a person may experience negative effects if they lower the dosage or stop taking it altogether.
Dependence can happen with many drugs, even when a person takes them as per their doctor’s instructions.
