Addiction vs Dependence Addiction is not the same thing as dependence. A person can depend on a harmful substance without being addicted to it. Those dependent on drugs and alcohol need the substance to function normally, but may not compulsively seek it out. Call us at (407) 691-3975. What is Drug Dependence? Many people confuse addiction and dependence. Drug dependence happens when the brain and body adapt to repeated use of a substance. The brain and body then can only function properly when taking the substance. Addiction involves the pattern of taking the drug and the reward that goes with it. It’s the pattern of constant use that creates addiction. With addiction, a person’s behavior changes for the worse as their life becomes a quest to use more and more drugs. Dependence puts you at risk of developing a full-blown addiction. Part of the addictive experience is the avoidance of the symptoms of withdrawal that go along with dependence. People with addiction try to remain high or drunk at all times, so they don’t have to deal with uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. People dependent on a substance need it to function properly, but the quest to use may not dominate their lives. Addiction is an extreme dependence where the affected person seeks out the drug no matter the consequences. Risks of Dependence If you do not take a drug that your body is dependent on, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. These include mild reactions, such as having the shakes from caffeine withdrawal to life-threatening reactions like seizures or respiratory arrest. The withdrawal symptoms lead to using the drug again to feel physiologically normal. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines, alcohol or opiates may cause deadly deadly reactions if you are severely addicted. Fear of withdrawal symptoms may prevent people from seeking treatment, but the benefits of a drug-free life far outweigh living with addiction. The most important thing to remember is that withdrawal symptoms will pass with time. Contact Dr. Hoffman at (407) 691-3975.