What is the difference between drug abuse and drug addiction

Abuse and dependence are defined on a scale that measures the time and degree of substance use. Essentially, abuse is like the early stage of dependence. As substance abuse becomes more frequent, the likelihood of developing a dependence disorder becomes greater.

Learn More. In this edition, the definitions revolving around addiction were changed once again. Previously, abuse was a mild form of addiction, and dependence was a moderate or severe form of addiction. That terminology was problematic because in biology — the study of organisms — dependence refers to a physical adaptation to a substance.

Today, the APA classifies substance use disorders as mild, moderate, or severe. Recognizing the difference between an addiction and substance dependence can help to better understand the nature of addiction. Knowing as much as possible about addiction and dependence can also be a valuable tool in achieving recovery. It is also important to realize that while a dependence may be present without addiction, substance dependencies frequently lead to addiction.

If you think you have a dependence or addiction, contact a treatment provider today for help. After graduation, he decided to pursue his passion of writing and editing. All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional. David embarked on his journey into sobriety in June of , which led him to his current career path as a Certified Professional Addiction Recovery Coach in private practice in Greater Nashville.

David is also a public speaker and the author of two books. David is cohost of the weekly Positive Sobriety Podcast, as well as being a frequent contributor to various articles and recovery based materials. As a member of the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors NAADAC , David works closely with Nashville area treatment centers, nonprofit recovery organizations, and consulting with faith-based groups trying to bridge the gap between the recovery communities and faith-based organizations who wish to understand addiction.

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Various medications have various effects depending on several factors. When this is combined with reduced motor control, impaired judgment, and poor decision-making, a person may find themselves in a dangerous situation. Drug Abuse can also lower inhibitions, encouraging a person to participate in activities or behaviors that they would not otherwise. Drug Abuse puts a person at risk for infectious diseases and several other health issues.

Even light drug use can put a person at risk of overdosing. You meet the requirements for Drug Abuse diagnosis if you have three or more of the following problems in 12 months:. Drug abuse exposes people to the same dangers as those who use drugs infrequently, but it also exposes them to a slew of mental and physical health issues.

People who misuse drugs regularly are more likely to have mental health problems. Long-term use can result in several mental health problems ranging from mild to extreme. Drug Abuse can harm vital organs and cause various physical illnesses and issues.

Substance abuse also does the most harm to the kidneys, liver, heart, and lungs. It is not unusual for people who are addicted to grow or experience :. Furthermore, those who suffer from addiction develop tolerances, requiring them to use more significant drugs to produce the same results.

This can hasten the effects of drugs and alcohol and raise the risk of overdosing. There may be a feeling of guilt or stigma related to Drug Abuse for those dealing with it. This stigma can harm the healing process. Addiction, like any disease, should be handled as something that is above your power, and you should find care to help you heal.

The medical world describes addiction as satisfying three or more of the DSM IV requirements throughout 12 months. Drug Abuseand addiction are not moral defects but instead a diagnosable disease that can be managed efficiently to lead to a healthier, drug-free existence.

If you believe you are suffering from substance abuse or addiction and are searching for a way out, therapy will help you get on the path to recovery. You can consume a substance without being addicted to it, but drug abuse regularly is more likely to lead to addiction. It all boils down to the rate of substance use vs.

Drug Abuse vs. Studies believe how often and how often a single drug is taken to distinguish. Some of the other characteristics of drug addiction include:.

While drug abuse and drug addiction are different, these two terms tend to be used interchangeably. In fact, these two terms may be retired in the near future.

Many mental health professionals and addiction specialists no longer specify between abuse and addiction. The benefit of differentiating between drug abuse and addiction is that determining the severity of your drug use makes it easier to find a successful treatment.

While counseling or support groups may be enough for those in the early stages of substance abuse, more severe addictions typically require detox and inpatient substance use treatment. At Diamond House Detox, our team of substance abuse specialists provides individualized treatment for drug abuse and addiction to ensure you get the help you need. Our expertise allows us to assess your individual needs so we can give you the best possible care.