Addiction:

An obsession, compulsion, or excessive PHYSICAL, or PSYCHOLOGICAL dependence.

How does PHYSICAL dependence differ from

PSYCHOLOGICAL dependence?

Physical Dependence:Physical dependence on a substance is

definedby theAPPEARANCE of withdrawal symptoms when use of the substance is no longer continued.

PSYCHOLOGICAL DEPENDENCE:PSYCHOLOGICAL DEPENDENCE IS A

DEPENDENCY OF THE MIND.

So the difference in PSYCHOLOGICAL dependency and PHYSICAL dependency lies in the symptoms you experience when use of a substance is discontinued.

Drugs that CAUSE PHYSICAL Symptoms:

• Alcohol• Opioids• Benzodiazepines• Antiepileptics • Antidepressants

Physical Withdrawal Symptoms Include:• NAUSEA• SWEATING• VOMITTING• SHAKING• INCREASE OF HEART

RATE/BLOOD PRESSURE

• SEIZURES

Drugs that cause psychological dependency are the same as the

ones that cause physical dependency, however, psychological

dependence begins after the first trial which a person then

becomes satisfied and the satisfaction increases with each use.

This constant feeling leads to psychological reinforcement which

eventually leads to dependence.

Psychological Withdrawal Symptoms Include:• Cravings• Irritability • Insomnia• Depression• Anorexia

Psychological dependence does NOT have to be limited only to substances; even particular activities and behavioural patterns can be considered addictions.

Activities/Behavioural Patterns That Can Cause A Psychological Dependency:• Internet addiction• Gambling addiction• Sexual addiction• Shopping/spending

addiction• Eating• Self harm

Treatment For Physical Dependency: Physical dependence is usually

managed by a slow dose reduction over a period of weeks, months or sometimes longer depending on the drug, dose and the individual

Treatment For Psychological Dependency:• A form of therapy

(depending on the substance) is usually used to discontinue withdrawal symptoms of psychological dependency.