Many people wonder about the differences between psychological and physiological dependence on drugs. This subject provides a great deal of confusion. Also, not helpful is how so much information you find misleads you even more. Those who are suffering from substance abuse problems may not be able to tell the difference, but a family member can. So, below some truths become clear, starting with the differences between psychological and physiological dependence. Find how a drug detox program can help you or your loved one.
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we understand the challenges surrounding dependence on drugs or alcohol. Fortunately, there is hope available. At our detox center, we can provide support as our clients go through withdrawal. For more information about our addiction detox program, please contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston today at 866.516.8356.
Psychological vs. Physiological Dependence
Psychological dependence is another term for mental dependence. Furthermore, physiological dependence is physical dependence. So you’re looking for details about the difference between mental and physical dependence on drugs.
Some drugs cause mental dependence. Other cause physical dependence. Many cause both. It is important to understand the difference between the two types of dependence in order to get the right treatment when the time comes. If a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse problem, learning more about addiction can help save their lives.
Physical Dependence
Physical dependence, or physical addiction, means your body cannot function normally without the drug. This physical need for your drug happens over a period of time. During that time, you abused the drug over and over. Your body changed its ways and means to work with the drug you kept abusing.
Over time, you realized you need your drug to keep from feeling “dope sick.” Dope sick is withdrawal. Withdrawal means you experience ill feelings because your body needs the drug to function normally. So you use more of your drug and cannot quit, or you feel terrible.
Some withdrawal symptoms of physical dependence on drugs may include:
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Body aches
- Fever
- Chills
The symptoms you feel will largely depend on your drug of choice.
Mental Dependence
Mental dependence makes you want your drug to help soothe your emotions or mental state. Some people use drugs to fall asleep, for example. Others use them because they feel anxious or depressed. These types of substance abuse cause mental dependence.
When you want to quit your drug, your emotional or mental needs make stopping your use harder. But you do not feel physically sick. Many people feel adverse side effects, however. These include agitation, mood swings, depression, anxiety, and sleeplessness.
Seek Addiction Treatment at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston
Getting help for physical and mental dependence on drugs comes from the same place. A residential detox center in Houston, TX, gives you the comfort, support, safety, and therapy you need for a fresh start in sobriety. In a licensed detox center, caring professionals watch your health and relieve your worst symptoms, making ending your addiction easier.
Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston provides accredited drug detox for people just like you. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, you also feel safe, comforted, and cared for during your first days without drugs.
Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston offers a number of therapy programs that are available to our patients. Programs that Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston offers may include:
- Individual therapy program
- Relapse prevention skills
- Family therapy program
- Group therapy program
- Meditation therapy program
- Psychotherapy program
- Chiropractic care
Addiction does not have to define your life. Help is available for those ready to take the steps to a better future. If you or someone you love want a future without alcohol or drugs, call Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston at 866.516.8356. Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston gives you the help you need to enter recovery. You can have the future you crave without drugs. Give us a call.
