There are so many terms that concern drug and alcohol abuse, and this face can make things very confusing. If you are thinking of participating in a residential treatment program at The Detox Center, knowing what is physical dependence can be crucial if you want to have a better understanding of your alcohol or drug problem.
Signs of Physical Dependence
Those who have a physical dependence on any substance may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using or reduce their consumption. When someone consumes high amounts of drugs or alcohol, the body becomes dependent on those substances and relies on it to carry out basic functions.
Physical drug dependence starts with tolerance. This is when the body has adapted to a certain amount of substance and needs a higher dosage to feel the same effects as before. People who use high amounts of alcohol or drugs have a higher chance of becoming tolerant and face the danger of becoming dependent if they do not seek help from an alcohol detox center program.
Certain substances pose a higher risk of physical dependence, such as prescription drugs. Substances that can make way for physical dependence can also include substances such as:
- Methamphetamines
- Opioids
- Alcohol
- Gabapentin
Repeated use of these drugs is very dangerous. Different drugs can produce various withdrawal symptoms that can range from mild to severe, and those who have been taking alcohol and drugs for a long time are at risk of suffering the most intense withdrawal symptom.
Depression
Depression is one of the most common withdrawal symptoms. This entails having a doubtful outlook, which can be very problematic for those who want to recover. Moodiness is also a symptom of withdrawal.
Lack of Sleep
Someone with physical dependence may exhibit a lack of sleep or insomnia, and since sleep in an integral part of life, the lack of sound sleep can make way for serious health problems.
Trembling and Seizures
Trembling means experiencing uncontrolled shaking, and seizures are sudden uncontrolled actions caused by interruptions in the brain wave pattern. Even less problematic issues like teary eyes and sweating are also part of physical dependence.
Anger
The outburst of anger or aggression is another symptom of physical dependence. Feelings of frustration and helplessness usually cause outbursts. When someone experiences this, getting professional help from an individual therapy program or similar program is necessary.
Physical Dependence vs. Psychological Dependence
The difference between physical and psychological dependence is that one affects your body, and the other one affects your behavior. Symptoms of psychological dependence include:
- Not being capable of stopping drug or alcohol use
- Obsession for the use of the drug
- Taking larger doses of drugs or alcohol
- Using substances to deal with problems
How Can Detox Help
Detox center programs are very beneficial for people who experience any form of physical dependence. This part of the treatment program enables qualified and experienced medical professionals to keep you comfortable throughout the entire duration of your withdrawal. When necessary, you may need medications to make the process easier.
Detox is an essential step in addiction recovery, but by itself, it would be impossible to achieve sobriety. Those who skip attending a rehabilitation program will have a higher risk of relapse since they won’t be equipped with a comprehensive addiction treatment that includes lessons on how to cope.
Addiction Without Physical Dependence Can Happen
Limited withdrawal symptoms accompany some drugs, but addiction can still be detrimental to one’s life. Non-substance addictions, like gambling, also don’t display any physical dependence. What is common for all these addictions are the unnatural and intense cravings that drive behavior.
In the same way, physical dependence can also happen without addiction. This is common for patients dealing with chronic pain, especially people who take opioid medications.
Seek Help at The Detox Center Today
Knowing what physical dependence is can help you grasp the real meaning of addiction, and this knowledge is a valuable tool in recovery. If you or a loved one is dealing with drug or alcohol physical dependence, The Detox Center offers various addiction therapy programs for lasting recovery. Call The Detox Center now at [Direct] and take the first step in the recovery process.
