Psychological dependence, sometimes referred to as psychological dependency or psychological addiction, is an artificial construct used to describe a facet of addiction.
The dualistic view of mind and body as separate entities is an unrealistic way of assessing most behaviors. All emotional processes and psychological processes have at least some physiological basis. Similarly, all behaviors beyond reflex actions – these are known as complex behaviors – have a pronounced psychological and emotional component. This extends to the behaviors associated with substance use disorders.
Being psychologically dependent on a substance and being addicted to a substance are terms sometimes used interchangeably. Dependence and addiction are not the same, though. If you are dealing with any issue related to substance abuse, it is vital to seek treatment — call our Huntington Beach rehab today to learn how we can help.
Dependence expresses the process by which you come to depend on an addictive substance, typically triggering withdrawal symptoms when you discontinue use.
By contrast, addiction is defined by NIDA (the National Institute on Drug Abuse) as a chronic and relapsing brain condition characterized by compulsive substance use despite negative outcomes. Addiction is a complicated condition with both physical and psychological elements that are often impractical to separate.
What’s Psychological Dependence?
Psychological dependence describes the mental and emotional processes associated with the development of and recovery from substance use disorders or behavioral addictions.
That said, it is not possible to cleanly separate emotion from physiology, since physical dependence and psychological dependence are not mutually exclusive.
While it might be possible to create a theoretical separation between physical and psychological dependence, in practice they are intertwined.
Most people experiencing psychological dependence encounter a range of emotional and cognitive symptoms. Most people experiencing physical dependence, by contrast, manifest symptoms that are not primarily emotional. In reality rather than theory, many people experience a complex interplay of physical and psychological, sometimes leading to full-blown addiction.
Essentially, psychological dependence is an artificial premise and often part of a bigger picture when it comes to substance use disorder.
Psychological Dependence and Substance Abuse
When psychological dependence is considered in terms of substance use, it relates to either the emotional and cognitive elements of addictive behaviors or the drug withdrawal process.
These are the most commonly reported symptoms of psychological dependence on addictive substances:
- Intense cravings for the substance
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Appetite changes
- Disrupted sleep patterns
- Obsessing over the substance
- Denial that a problem exists
- Glamorizing substance use
- Issues with memory and problem-solving
- Problems with concentration and focus
- Impaired judgment
The symptoms typically associated with psychological dependence are much more variable in presentation than those associated with physical dependence on drugs.
Symptoms like cravings that are considered mainly psychological also often have some physiological basis. Additionally, the symptoms of physical dependence and tolerance can differ in presentation according to psychological variables.
Psychological Dependence Drugs
Most experts agree that all substances of abuse can lead to both physical and psychological aspects of dependence.
The following substances are all linked to primarily psychological dependence:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Ritalin
- Hallucinogens like LSD
- Inhalants
- Antidepressants and other psychotropics
The following substances are all linked to primarily physical dependence:
- Opiates
- Opioids
- Alcohol
- Barbiturates
- Benzodiazepines
There are many other substances of abuse associated with a complex mixture of psychological and physical withdrawal symptoms, triggering both physical and psychological dependence.
Get Addiction Help at The District Recovery
If you need help with addiction to alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs, you’ll first need to address any physical dependence by detoxing and withdrawing from the substance in question. The scope and severity of your addiction will dictate whether you need a supervised medical detox or whether you can consider a tapered reduction at home. Reach out to our Huntington Beach rehab if you need to connect with a medical detox center near you.
Treating psychological dependence on drugs is more challenging, although working closely with a therapist can help you identify what triggers you to use substances. You can then discover how to utilize healthy coping mechanisms instead when faced with everyday stressors.
Here at The District, we specialize in gender-specific rehab delivered in an outpatient setting, including sober living homes. Flexible and affordable, you can remain anchored to your responsibilities without compromising your recovery. Our men’s rehab and women’s rehab programs are available in the following forms:
- OP (outpatient program)
- IOP (intensive outpatient program)
- PHP (partial hospitalization program)
The key difference between these programs is the time commitment required, ensuring you get the correct level of care for your needs.
Our distraction-free treatment environment offers you access to a personalized array of evidence-backed therapies, including:
- MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
- Psychotherapy (CBT and DBT)
- Counseling (individual and group)
- Family therapy
- Holistic therapies
When you complete your course of treatment at The District, you’ll leave with the right aftercare plan and relapse management strategies in place to help you continue to combat psychological dependence on substances. Get things started today and take your first step to sober living by calling 844.287.8506 today.
