Chemical Dependency

 

The body’s physical and/or psychological addiction to a psychoactive (mind-altering) substance, such as narcotics, alcohol, or nicotine. Physical dependency on such chemicals as prescription drugs or alcohol stems from repetitive use followed by the gradual increase in the body’stolerance to, or ability to assimilate, that drug. Thus, increasingly larger doses must be consumed to maintain the drug’s desired effects, which may include the temporary alleviation of depression or anxiety, or the induction of euphoria. Without an increase in the dosage, it is possible for actual or anticipated drug withdrawal symptoms to occur.

 

Although the physical dependancy is serious, it is actually the easiest aspect to treat. We would always recommend that this is done under medical supervision as the wothdrawal symptoms themselves can pose health risks to the individual. Following detoxification it is essential that the psychological dependency is adressed if there is to be hope for a sustained recovery.