Navigation: How to Characterize a Drug Dependent Person, Compulsive Drug Use, Intense Cravings, Tolerance, Loss of Control, Neglect of Responsibilities, Withdrawal Symptoms, Denial, Social Withdrawal, Supporting a Loved One with Drug Dependence
Drug dependence is a complex medical condition. The term “dependence” is often used interchangeably with addiction. But while the two concepts are related, there is actually a difference between them.
An addicted person will keep taking the drug even when they are already struggling from its consequences. A drug dependent individual will be unable to function normally without taking their substance of choice.
These two concepts are closely intertwined. However, it is possible for a person to develop an addiction without being dependent, and vice-versa. This is why a number of definitions for drug dependence exist. [1]
Dependence typically develops over time as a result of repeated exposure to drugs. Some substances trigger changes in the brain’s reward system, leading to tolerance, where higher doses of the substance are needed to achieve the desired effects.
In this article we will be talking about drug dependence and some of the warning signs you need to watch out for if you think you or someone you love has it.
How to Characterize a Drug Dependent Person
Drug dependence is when a person needs one or more drugs in order to function. According to The American Psychiatric Association (APA), dependence often leads to physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal such as anxiety, depression, muscle weakness, nightmares, body aches, sweating, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms manifest when a drug dependent person reduces or stops their intake. [2]
Because drug dependence can have devastating consequences, it is crucial to recognize its warning signs. Identifying drug dependence allows for timely intervention and treatment.
Early detection of dependence helps healthcare professionals provide appropriate support and resources to those who need it. Early intervention can even prevent the escalation of substance abuse into something more severe.
With a deeper understanding of drug dependence, we can also fight the stigma surrounding addiction. It is important to acknowledge addiction and dependence as complex medical conditions rather than a moral failing. Stigma only prevents people from getting the help that they need.
Understanding dependence and its warning signs can help encourage more people to seek proper addiction treatment.
With that in mind, let us take a closer look at drug dependence and some common characteristics exhibited by those who have it.
Compulsive Drug Use
Although addiction and dependence are not exactly the same, compulsive drug use is one of the common warning signs of drug dependence.
A drug dependent person will continue to use the drug despite experiencing negative consequences because they feel like they can’t function normally without it. This leads to physical and mental health problems, as well as relationship problems, legal troubles, and financial difficulties.
Compulsive drug use is a pattern of substance abuse characterized by an irresistible urge to consume drugs. This behavior is usually driven by physical and psychological dependence. It may also indicate that the person has developed an addiction.
Studies show that compulsive drug use despite negative consequences is correlated with alterations in the brain. [3]
Treatment typically involves a combination of medical intervention, therapy, and support groups to address both the physiological and psychological components of dependence and promote long-term recovery.
Intense Cravings
When a person stops taking drugs or alcohol, they may experience intense cravings. These are strong urges to take a substance.
Physiologically, these substances can trigger the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which is associated with feelings of pleasure and reward. This creates a cycle where people seek out these substances to experience those pleasurable sensations repeatedly. This is why a lot of people take drugs or drink alcohol recreationally. Their brain is telling them to repeat the sensations that made them feel good.
Other people turn to drugs or alcohol as a means of coping with stress, anxiety, or some other mental health issue. The temporary relief they feel can become a powerful incentive for continued use.
When drug or alcohol dependence develops, cravings become more powerful. Cravings can be triggered by certain events, people, or emotional states.
Tolerance
When a person takes a drug over time, their body eventually becomes accustomed to its presence. Before they become dependent on the substance, they first develop tolerance.
This refers to a reduced sensitivity to the effects of a particular substance. It is the body’s diminishing response to a substance with repeated use. This means that the brain or body no longer responds to the prescription or recreational drug the same way it used to. [4]
If the person wants to experience a similar high or enjoy the benefits of the substance, they need to take higher doses of the drug. Tolerance means that they need much larger doses just to achieve the same initial effects.
This ultimately increases the risk of dependence. It even puts the person at risk of potential overdose.
Tolerance can complicate medical treatment, requiring adjustments to dosages or changes in medication regimens to maintain therapeutic effectiveness.
Loss of Control
This one is usually considered a sign of drug addiction, but may also apply to drug dependence. Difficulty controlling the amount or frequency of your intake can be a sign of dependence. A drug dependent person may often end up using larger amounts than they intended.
Losing control over your drug use can be an overwhelming experience that can make you feel hopeless. While substance use can give you a fleeting sense of euphoria or relief, this can be quickly replaced by feelings of despair or powerlessness.
As dependence takes hold, the initial allure transforms into a relentless craving. It can feel like it is overriding your rational thoughts, impacting your capacity for self-control.
Despite knowing the consequences, the compulsion to use the substance becomes overwhelming. Oftentimes, it leads to a downward spiral of destructive behavior. Each attempt to regain control seems futile, as the cycle of use, remorse, and desperation perpetuates.
Drug dependence can leave people feeling trapped in a cycle from which it feels impossible to escape.
Neglect of Responsibilities
As the substance becomes their main priority, drug dependent individuals may neglect their responsibilities like work, school, and family obligations. This is one of the most prominent signs of drug dependence.
When a person becomes dependent on drugs, their priorities often shift. Their focus becomes consumed by obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of the substance. They will spend most of their time and energy trying to obtain their drug of choice.
In the process, they may strain their relationships or struggle to perform well in school or at work. They may frequently miss deadlines, skip work or classes, or fail to fulfill commitments to family and friends.
This neglect can have serious consequences, including job loss, academic failure, broken friendships, and financial difficulties. Ultimately, the neglect of responsibilities due to drug dependence can significantly disrupt many different aspects of a person’s life.
Withdrawal Symptoms
The main thing people should watch out for when it comes to drug dependence is withdrawal symptoms.
Dependence typically develops from regular and prolonged use of drugs, leading to changes in brain chemistry. When the drug is no longer present in the body, it disrupts the balance that the brain has adapted to, resulting in withdrawal symptoms. [5]
Experiencing physical or psychological symptoms when attempting to cut down or stop drug use is a clear indicator of dependence.
Withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the substance. They can also be influenced by your age, your physical health, your mental and emotional state, and other personal factors. [5]
They may range from mild to severe and can include anxiety, restlessness, irritability, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, sweating, shaking, anxiety, depression, and fatigue. In some extreme cases, withdrawal can lead to seizures, paranoia, confusion, tremors, or hallucinations. Some substances may even cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. [5]
Proper management of withdrawal often involves medical supervision and may include medications to alleviate symptoms and support the patient through the process of detoxification.
Detoxification, also known as medical detox, is a method that involves gradually lowering the patient’s drug or alcohol intake while their withdrawal symptoms are managed by medical professionals. This is an important step in the addiction recovery process as it keeps the person safe during this difficult stage of recovery.
Denial
Denial is another hallmark sign of drug dependence. This is when people refuse to acknowledge or accept the severity of their substance abuse problem. This is a psychological defense mechanism that involves minimizing the consequences of drug use or rationalizing harmful behaviors.
Some people outright reject concerns raised by loved ones or professionals. For someone struggling with drug dependence, denial allows them to maintain a facade of control while continuing to engage in destructive patterns. It helps them avoid or ignore the harsh reality of their situation.
Despite mounting evidence, drug dependent individuals may persist in their substance use, convinced that they can quit at any time.
Breaking through denial is often a crucial first step towards recovery, as it opens the door to acknowledging the need for help and seeking appropriate treatment and support.
Social Withdrawal
Social withdrawal is a prevalent sign of drug dependence. Those who are struggling with drug dependence may prioritize substance use over their interpersonal connections.
This withdrawal can stem from their feelings of shame, guilt, or fear of judgment. They may start hanging out with different people—particularly those who tolerate or enable their substance abuse. They may isolate themselves from their loved ones out of the desire to conceal their substance use.
The diminishing social circle can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and contribute to the cycle of substance misuse. The feelings of loneliness caused by substance abuse can be dangerous and destructive. People may increasingly rely on drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism to alleviate their emotional distress. [6]
Supporting a Loved One with Drug Dependence
It’s essential to approach those who are struggling with drug dependence with empathy and understanding. While supporting someone struggling with drug dependence can be challenging, it is also incredibly important.
Here are some steps you can take to offer meaningful support:
Educate Yourself: Learn about drug dependence, addiction, and the specific substance the person is struggling with. Understanding the nature of addiction can help you provide better support.
Listen Without Judgment: Create a safe space for the person to share their feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. Let them know you are there to listen and support them.
Express Concern: Talk to the person about your concerns regarding their drug use. Use “I” statements to express your feelings without blaming or accusing them. For example, say “I’m worried about your health and well-being” instead of “You’re ruining your life.” [7]
Offer Emotional Support: Let the person know that you care about them and that you are there to support them through their struggles. Offer encouragement, empathy, and understanding.
Encourage Professional Help: Suggest that the person seek professional help from a therapist, counselor, or addiction specialist. Offer to help them find resources and support them in their treatment journey.
Explore Treatment Options: Research treatment options such as therapy, support groups, detox programs, and rehabilitation centers. Help the person explore their options and find the best course of action for their situation.
Set Boundaries: It’s important to set boundaries to protect yourself and maintain your own well-being. This might include refusing to enable their drug use or avoiding situations where drugs are present.
Encourage Healthy Habits: Encourage the person to engage in healthy activities such as exercise, hobbies, and socializing. These activities can help distract them from drug use and improve their overall well-being.
Be Patient and Persistent: Recovery from drug dependence is a long and difficult journey, and there may be setbacks along the way. Be patient with the person and continue to offer your support and encouragement. Do not expect one conversation to fix the problem. [7]
Take Care of Yourself: Supporting someone with drug dependence can be emotionally draining, so make sure to take care of yourself as well. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if needed, and don’t hesitate to set boundaries if the situation becomes too overwhelming.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use disorder or drug dependence, seek professional treatment immediately. Look for a rehab center near you and learn more about the various treatment options that are available.
Sources:
[1]: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20715472/
[2]: https://www.healthline.com/health/drug-dependence
[3]: https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1819978116
[4]: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drug-tolerance
[5]: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/addiction-withdrawal-symptoms
[6]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4295122/
[7]: https://www.helpguide.org/articles/addictions/helping-someone-with-drug-addiction.htm
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