Addiction vs dependence: Definitions and differences

Frequently, payers, health care providers, and even epidemiologists utilize claims data based on diagnosis code data to guide policy and treatment. However, a recent study 1 raises significant concerns about the accuracy of these diagnostic data. Addiction Resource is an educational platform for sharing and disseminating information about addiction and substance abuse recovery addiction vs dependence centers.

How Does Tolerance Occur?

As preparations for the fifth revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) are under way, this paper focuses upon changes proposed for the substance use disorders section. It briefly outlines the history behind the current nomenclature, and the selection of the term ‘dependence’ over ‘addiction’ in earlier versions of the DSM. These dual meanings have led to confusion and may have propagated current clinical practices related to under-treatment of pain, as physicians fear creating an ‘addiction’ by prescribing opioids. In part to address this problem, a change proposed for DSM-V is to alter the chapter name to ‘Addiction and Related Disorders’, which will include disordered gambling. The specific substance use disorders may be referred to as ‘alcohol use’ or ‘opioid use’ disorders. The criteria for the disorders are likely to remain similar, with the exception of removal of the ‘committing illegal acts’ criterion and addition of a ‘craving’ criterion.

Mental Dependence Vs. Physical Dependence

Addiction recovery can involve addressing both physical and psychological health. Many people who use the term “dependence” are referring to physical dependence. This information should not replace a visit to a doctor or treatment center. If you are concerned that you or a loved one might be suffering from addiction to multiple substances, ask for professional help today. There are many treatment options available for proper support and recovery of drug addiction. Drug tolerance refers to the body getting used to a substance over time.

Determining Whether You’re Dependent or Addicted

When you first start drinking alcohol, it may have taken only a few drinks for you to feel drunk. But over time, you may need more drinks, more often, for the same effect. It’s important to realize that addiction is a chronic disorder that can result in relapse. In most cases, addiction is determined by noticeable negative consequences to one’s life. If a substance harms you, your relationships, and your obligations, it’s most likely addiction. You are dependent if you stop taking the drug and experience withdrawal symptoms.

People Also Ask

In this edition, the definitions revolving around addiction were changed once again. The APA ditched both “substance abuse” and “substance dependence” in favor of “substance use disorder.” Substance use disorder is now the medical term for addiction. Previously, abuse was a mild form of addiction, and dependence was a moderate or severe form of addiction.

• Other professionals who diagnose addiction (e.g. social workers, physician assistants, nurse-practitioners, addiction counselors) also need better education about these distinctions.
• When addiction occurs, it is evident by a person’s continuous use of a substance even when that person is already experiencing negative consequences from it.

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• While dependence and addiction are often used interchangeably, they are different.
• If you or anyone you know is undergoing a severe health crisis, call a doctor or 911 immediately.
• In the case of prescription medications, there is often no way to prevent drug tolerance from developing.
• The criteria for the disorders are likely to remain similar, with the exception of removal of the ‘committing illegal acts’ criterion and addition of a ‘craving’ criterion.
• Our team does their best for our readers to help them stay informed about vital healthcare decisions.
• Many people who use the term “dependence” are referring to physical dependence.

It’s essential to note that a person who experiences dependence and withdrawal is not necessarily addicted to a substance. Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain. These changes primarily occur in the brain’s reward system, particularly within areas like the nucleus accumbens and the prefrontal cortex. Addiction has harmful physical, psychological, and social effects.

• For example, if you take a sedative to sleep, it may work very well at the first dose.
• Some nuances can make it difficult to determine if someone is addicted or dependent on a substance.
• Effective programs usually include many components, designed to help the individual stop using drugs, maintain a drug-free lifestyle, and fulfill their obligations to their family and in the workplace.
• And anyone can become addicted, from people experiencing homelessness to business executives.