DEPENDENT Definition & Meaning

Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance plans cover detox, dependence definition rehabilitation programs, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and therapy. Coverage details of each insurance vary based on the provider and plan. Detox helps manage withdrawal symptoms and reduces the risk of complications through medications, hydration therapy, and medical monitoring. It is important for individuals with severe substance dependence, as sudden cessation leads to life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. Early exposure increases addiction risk by disrupting normal brain development and altering the brain’s reward system, making individuals more susceptible to substance dependence later in life.

What is the outlook for addiction?

dependence definition

Physical dependence is when the body requires a specific dose of a particular drug, such as a prescription opioid1, in order to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Substance use disorder (SUD), or addiction, is classified as abnormal and is defined by the DSM-52 as a chronic, treatable illness. It can be hard to acknowledge that you’re living with substance use disorder. But if https://ecosoberhouse.com/ drug or alcohol use has started to negatively affect other aspects of your life, like your relationships, job, health or finances, it’s time to seek treatment. For people with addiction, using certain substances or engaging in certain behaviors stimulates the brain’s so-called reward center, releasing a chemical messenger called dopamine that signifies pleasure. But your brain doesn’t know how to deal with so much dopamine, so it copes by lowering its sensitivity.

Related Words

dependence definition

Mental dependence is when a person relies on a substance or behavior to cope with emotional challenges. For example, a person may drink alcohol when they feel stressed but otherwise feel no compulsion to drink. In this article, we look at the differences between addiction and dependence and explore definitions, examples, and differences in treatment. Hooked Addicted; entangled in a difficult situation; under someone else’s power or influence; devoted to or obsessed by a person, occupation, or other matter. This expression refers to the plight of a fish that has been captured, or hooked, by a fisherman, a fate which usually leads to the animal’s destruction. This causes the brain to become reliant on the substance for dopamine release, reducing its ability to generate pleasure naturally.

dependence definition

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  • You can rewire your brain after addiction by leveraging the brain’s neuroplasticity to create new, healthier neural pathways.
  • Some examples have been provided for you to reference on how “dependency” can be used correctly in various situations.
  • 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.
  • These addictions significantly disrupt an individual’s daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being, manifesting in both physical and psychological symptoms.

Professional help for addiction offers guidance tailored to your individual needs, helping you navigate the complexities of detox, therapy, and recovery. Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Substance abuse Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), provide a sense of community and shared experience, helping you stay accountable and motivated throughout the recovery process. To prevent relapse effectively, it is important to develop a strong foundation of coping skills, build a supportive network, and identify and manage triggers.

  • Alcohol use disorder is the most common substance addiction in the United States, followed by nicotine and marijuana.
  • Common behavioral addictions include gambling addiction, internet addiction, video game addiction, sex addiction, shopping addiction, food addiction, exercise addiction, work addiction, and social media addiction.
  • SUD can occur separately from physical dependence, although in the case of opioid use, a patient is also typically physically dependent on the drug.
  • The adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to substance use, as it is still undergoing necessary developmental changes.

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