There is a lot of debate about dependence vs. addiction and whether they are the same thing or not. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there is a distinct difference between them. At Evoke Wellness at Miramar, we treat patients with substance use disorder, whether they are dependent or addicted. We treat each person with respect and tailor their treatment plan to best suit their individual needs. Call us at 866.931.9312 today to learn about our substance abuse treatment in Florida.
Dependence vs Addiction
For Evoke Wellness at Miramar, understanding the distinction between dependence and addiction is crucial in the path to recovery. Both terms are often used interchangeably, but they represent different aspects of substance use disorder.
Dependence refers to a physical state where the body has adapted to the presence of a drug. If an individual with dependence stops taking the substance abruptly, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, as their body needs time to adjust to functioning without the substance.
On the other hand, addiction is a psychological condition characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. It involves changes in the brain’s reward system, leading to intense cravings and loss of control over drug use.
Signs of Substance Use Disorder
Substance use disorder is a medical condition that can manifest in various ways. The key signs include using more of the substance than intended, unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use, spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance, and continued use despite negative consequences on health, relationships, or occupation.
Signs of Dependence
Physical dependence can manifest through tolerance, where higher doses of the drug are needed to achieve the desired effect, and withdrawal, where stopping or reducing use leads to unpleasant symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the substance but may include:
- Nausea
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Shaking or tremors
- Sweating
These signs may indicate a person has developed a dependence on a substance.
Signs of Addiction
In addition to the signs of dependence, addiction is also characterized by psychological symptoms such as:
- Compulsive drug seeking and use
- Difficulty controlling use
- Isolation and neglect of responsibilities
- Continued use despite negative consequences
Addiction goes beyond physical dependence. At this point, individuals may need professional help to overcome their addiction and achieve long-term recovery.
Dependence, Addiction, and the Brain
Both dependence and addiction involve changes in brain chemistry, but they affect different areas of the brain. Dependence primarily affects the body’s physical processes, while addiction involves changes in the reward system, impulse control, and decision-making areas of the brain. This is why individuals with addiction may struggle with controlling their drug use, even if they want to stop.
Treatment Options
Evoke Wellness at Miramar offers a comprehensive range of services for treating substance use disorders. These include detoxification, residential treatment, co-occurring drug rehab programs, and a variety of specialized therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). We also provide holistic therapies like yoga therapy and meditative therapy, which serve to support the overall well-being of our patients.
Our treatment approach emphasizes dual diagnosis to address both the substance use disorder and any co-occurring mental health conditions. We believe in treating the whole person, not just the addiction or dependence.
Call Evoke Wellness at Miramar Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with dependence or addiction, reach out to Evoke Wellness at Miramar today. Call 866.931.9312 or reach out online to learn more about our substance abuse treatment in South Florida. Our compassionate and experienced team is dedicated to helping individuals achieve lasting recovery and improved quality of life. Take the first step towards a brighter future with Evoke Wellness at Miramar.
