What is the Definition of Addiction

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. The fact that this critical part of a teen’s brain is still a work in progress puts them at increased risk for trying drugs or continuing to take them. Introducing drugs during this period of development may cause brain changes that have profound and long-lasting consequences. But with continued use, a person’s ability to exert self-control can become seriously impaired. Both disrupt the normal, healthy functioning of an organ in the body, both have serious harmful effects, and both are, in many cases, preventable and treatable.

“Dependence” vs. “Dependency” – Difference Explained

Many patients are often confused as to how they can be dependent on a drug, such as an opioid, but not be addicted to it. The distinction is essential for patients and caregivers to understand. This is why recent evidence-based literature clearly defines the difference between addiction and physical dependence in drug use.

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• Always remember, clear and straightforward writing is key to effective communication.
• They can help steer you to the right resources, like rehabilitation, therapy, support groups and more.
• Genetics and biology influence addiction by shaping an individual’s vulnerability to substance use disorders through hereditary risk, brain chemistry, and genetic variations.
• Another adjective use of “dependent” is to describe a situation or condition that relies on or is influenced by external factors.
• This article will go over the differences between “dependence” and “dependency” and any nuances there may be.

Untreated addiction also harms family members, and the effects can last for generations. Most people seem to use the words “dependence” and “addiction” interchangeably. We spoke to substance use disorder specialist David Streem, MD, to get a better understanding. For example, a person with a caffeine dependence who stops drinking coffee may have withdrawal symptoms for a few days but then feel better.

• Meal ticket One’s main source of income; a person, skill, or talent upon which one depends for his livelihood.
• According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS), nearly 1 million overdose deaths since 2000, and 37.3 million Americans aged 12 and older reported illegal drug use in 2020.
• 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide a structured, peer-supported approach to addiction recovery.

Meaning of dependence in English

Substances send massive surges of dopamine through your brain, too, as well as certain activities, like having sex or spending money. But instead of motivating you to do the things you need to do to survive (eat, work and spend time with loved ones), such massive dopamine levels can have damaging effects on your thoughts, feelings and behavior. They can help steer you to the right resources, like rehabilitation, therapy, support groups and more. In time, as both heal from their injuries, their bodies have become dependent on the medication. One person follows their provider’s guidance to safely stop the medication, and soon, they no longer need it.

Common Collocations:

The word “dependent” captures the essence of reliance and contingency, making it a vital term in both personal and formal contexts. Its versatility ensures its relevance across a broad spectrum of discussions, from emotional connections to technical conditions. Continue exploring related terms and contexts to deepen your understanding. As a noun, “dependent” describes a person who relies on another individual for financial, emotional, or physical support. As an adjective, “dependent” signifies reliance on someone or something for care, support, or sustenance.

Meaning of dependent in English

When they first use a drug, people may perceive what seem to be positive Drug rehabilitation effects. Some people may start to feel the need to take more of a drug or take it more often, even in the early stages of their drug use. The word “dependent” functions primarily as an adjective and a noun.

Psychotherapy helps individuals address the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction by modifying negative thought patterns and developing healthy coping mechanisms. Rehabilitation programs provide structured treatment to help individuals recover from addiction through therapy, medical care, and relapse prevention strategies. These programs vary in intensity and duration based on the individual’s needs. Additional diagnostic tools like toxicology screenings (urine or blood tests) help confirm substance use.

Examples in Sentences

But in the 16th century, the spelling of the word began to shift toward the -ent ending, influenced by the Latin form of the word, dēpendēnt. It is this Latinized spelling of the adjective that is predominately found in American and British English today. Dependence refers to the state of relying on someone or something for support or survival.

This adjective form describes something or someone that is secondary or inferior in status, often functioning as an accessory to a more dominant entity. The word “dependent” is used in multiple scenarios, each reflecting its core theme of reliance or contingency. In severe cases of intoxication or overdose, a person may require emergency care.

In this case, this person’s dependence has become opioid use disorder, another term for addiction. People can have just a physical dependence, addiction, or both at the same time. This is when a person depends on a substance or behavior emotionally, https://ecosoberhouse.com/ such as when stressed. You get help for addiction by seeking professional treatment, support groups, and online resources. The first step in recovery is recognizing the need for help and reaching out to a healthcare provider, therapist, or addiction specialist.

dependent

This article will go over the differences between “dependence” and “dependency” and any nuances there may be. This is an example of a chemical dependency (in this case, to nicotine) that is also an addiction. Despite the consequences dependence definition that your nicotine use is having on your health, finances and relationship, you continue to engage in the behavior.

Examples of “Dependent” in a Sentence

Dependence can happen with many drugs, even when a person takes them as per their doctor’s instructions. According to a 2021 research article, healthcare professionals often misunderstand them, which can lead to misdiagnosis. Although they may seem similar, addiction and dependence are distinct concepts. In summary, dependant can be used for the noun in either British or American English, but dependent for either noun or adjective is a safe choice in American English. Use “dependence” to describe a need for support; avoid confusing it with “dependency,” which often refers to a specific condition.