HABIT FORMING –
Feb. 17, 2022 – Addiction and dependency are two terms that are often used interchangeably. There are differences between the two.
Addiction happens when a person uses a substance such as alcohol, marijuana, or another drug in excess. It is usually marked by a change in behavior, where the person becomes consistently focused on using that substance regardless of potential negative outcomes. Addiction can be physical, psychological, or both at the same time.
Substance dependence, also called chemical dependence, is when a person experiences physical dependence on a substance but is not addicted to it. One example is when a person who has taken a prescription medication for a long time stops taking that medication and experiences physical or mental withdrawal symptoms.6 Dependence symptoms can be cognitive, behavioral, and physical.
Dependence presents as a pattern. A person first uses a substance such as marijuana repeatedly. After regular use over time, they build a tolerance, where the effects of the substance are not noticed as much or at all. The person experiences symptoms when they stop using the substance, which makes them feel the need to use it again.
