While the path to dependency is different for everyone, it’s always a complicated journey. While many people can use certain substances without forming a dependency, others may develop a reliance and feel a need to continue using the substance. Eventually, this substance dependency can become so strong that stopping may feel impossible. Understanding more about dependency, like how and why it develops, can reduce stigma, encourage compassion, and help people recognize when professional treatment is a viable option.
What is Dependency?
Dependency is a condition in which a person adapts to a substance or behavior. Ultimately, they become so ensnared that functioning without it becomes difficult. There are two primary types of dependency: physical and psychological.
Physical Dependency
Physical dependency is when the body adapts to the presence of a substance over an extended period. Essentially, with time, the body not only gets used to the drug, but begins to rely on that substance to function normally. Suddenly stopping use can cause withdrawal symptoms to occur.
Psychological Dependency
Psychological dependency is an emotional or mental reliance on a substance or behavior. An individual may think they need the substance to cope with a difficult situation or emotions, or simply just to get through the day.
Genetics Play a Role
Genetics account for a significant portion of a person’s risk for developing SUD (Substance Use Disorders), based on research. Inherited traits may affect how rewarding substances feel, impulse control, stress response, and more. Having specific genes or a family history of addiction does not guarantee someone will become dependent, but it can increase vulnerability or the risk of this condition occurring.
Brain Chemistry Changes Over Time
Many addictive substances affect the brain’s reward system, so a dose that once provided relief no longer packs the same punch. Continued substance use causes the brain to adapt, and over time, natural rewards become less satisfying and increased amounts of the substance may be necessary to achieve the same effect. These changes make stopping increasingly difficult, even when someone wants to quit.
Mental Health Conditions Can Increase Risk
There is an overlap between mental health conditions and substance dependency. Some people begin using substances in an attempt to manage symptoms of mental health conditions. This is sometimes referred to as self-medication. Substance use may provide short-term relief, but this practice typically worsens the mental health symptoms over time. Extended use also increases the risk of developing reliance.
Early Exposure Increases Vulnerability
Beginning substance use at a young age, like during the teenage years or even younger, can increase one’s vulnerability or the likelihood of developing dependency later in life because the brain’s decision-making and impulse-control systems are still maturing. Early exposure may also strengthen patterns of substance use before healthy coping skills have fully developed.
Environmental Factors Matter
A person’s surroundings strongly influence their relationship with substances. Everything from easy access to a substance, peer pressure, and family history of substance abuse can influence how an individual engages with substances. Even issues like lack of social support and housing instability play a role.
Prescription Medications Can Lead to Dependency
Illicit drugs aren’t the only type of substance that can lead to dependency. Some prescription medications carry a risk of physical dependence, especially when used over an extended period.
Recovery From Dependency
This condition can feel overwhelming, but it is treatable. Countless people have beaten their reliance on substances, and you can, too. Because every person’s experience is different, treatment plans are most effective when tailored to individual needs and the underlying factors contributing to dependency. Contact us at Comprehensive Wellness Centers in South Florida to learn more about our program and get the help you need.
