Physical vs Psychological Dependence
- Ben Pearson
- Jul 27, 2021
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 25
We understand that the journey through addiction is complex, encompassing both the body and the mind. It’s not enough to address just one side of the coin; true, lasting recovery requires a holistic approach that tackles both the physical dependence and the more enduring psychological toll of addiction simultaneously.
What is the core difference in recovery timeline between physical and psychological dependence?
The physical symptoms of dependence often subside within about a month after detox. However, the effects of psychological dependence, such as anxiety and depression, can last much longer and require continued attention throughout all stages of the recovery journey.
You’ve just scratched the surface on the difference between the immediate challenges of physical withdrawal and the persistent struggle of psychological dependence. Keep reading to fully grasp the unique symptoms of each and why a treatment plan that addresses both is absolutely essential for achieving prolonged sobriety.
Addiction to drugs, alcohol, gambling, sex, or any other kind of addiction is a complicated, multifaceted affair. Addiction has a number of physical and psychological effects on a person, creating symptoms that greatly impact one’s physical and mental wellbeing.
Addressing addiction means understanding and developing personal strategies to cope not just with one’s physical dependence on an addictive substance, but also the psychological toll that will be present throughout each individual’s recovery journey.
What Is Physical Dependence?
The physical dependence on an addictive substance or behavior is commonly what comes to mind first when words like “addiction” are brought up. One’s physical dependence is defined by the body’s ability to aptly perform regular functions. Those suffering from addiction may find it incredibly difficult to operate when their addiction is suddenly denied to them.
This physical dependence means that an individual may feel exhausted, or unable to focus and perform daily tasks until they have engaged with a certain addictive substance or behavior. This continuously reinforces the idea that engaging with these addictive substances or practices is essential for their daily life.
Symptoms of Physical Dependence
The body can have a variety of reactions if it is denied what it has become accustomed to believing it needs for “normal” levels of functioning. Some of the symptoms of physical dependence can include:
Increased heart rate
Muscle cramps
Shaking
Nausea
Vomiting
Increased blood pressure
Exhaustion
Fatigue
Each individual will express their own symptoms, or a unique combination of symptoms, that can all indicate a degree of physical dependence. Those who are just beginning their recovery process and undergoing a detox program may experience these symptoms intensely during withdrawal. While difficult, it is a necessary phase that allows the body to readjust itself to traditional homeostasis that is not dependent on engagement with an addictive substance or behavior to operate.
What Is Psychological Dependence?
Psychological dependence is the way in which the mind believes it needs to engage with an addictive practice. Unlike physical dependence where physical symptoms may be present, psychological dependence affects an individual’s perception of themselves, their environment, and how they believe they “need” these substances or behaviors.
However, that does not make this kind of dependence any less dangerous, and it can have many complicated issues on its own. Despite being relegated to one’s mental state, psychological dependence can have several real-world effects on an individual.
Symptoms of Psychological Dependence
There are a number of different psychological symptoms that can indicate dependence on a particular substance or behavior. Some of the symptoms may include:
Anxiety
Depression
Decreased motivation
Feelings of detachment
Insomnia
Reprioritization of relationships
Altered personality/worldview
Lack of focus
Difficulty regulating emotions
These symptoms can intimately ingrain themselves in one’s psyche and can last for a long time even after one’s detox program has concluded. The difficulties created by this kind of dependence can affect many other aspects of an individual’s life. Feelings of anxiety and depression can fuel the further use of an addictive substance or behavior, and feelings of detachment can further deteriorate already strained relationships, as well.
The Differences Between Psychological vs Physical Dependence
While both kinds of dependence often happen in tandem, there are some differences in how they are addressed, particularly when it comes to the early stages of recovery such as a detox program. Understanding the distinction between physical vs psychological dependence is key during this time.
The physical symptoms, such as aches and pains, can all be very difficult. However, these symptoms often last a much shorter amount of time after one’s last engagement with an addictive substance or behavior.
While physical symptoms can begin to subside within about a month, the effects of one’s psychological dependence can last much longer, continuing to produce a great deal of anxiety, depression, or other symptoms that need to be addressed throughout detox, residential, sober living, and outpatient care.
Recognizing the difference between physical vs psychological dependence helps guide treatment priorities. Creating individualized approaches to each person’s recovery program is essential in addressing the unique ways that one’s psychological dependence can continue to manifest. Furthermore, it is crucial for creating pertinent coping strategies to restructure one’s mental and emotional state.
Tackling the Problem Holistically
While both physical and psychological dependence can create their own complications throughout one’s recovery journey, it is still important to address them simultaneously through the recovery process.
Dealing with the physical component of withdrawal or dependence without preparing oneself for the psychological side of addiction can create gaps in one’s coping and recovery toolkit, increasing the chances of relapse.
Likewise, addressing the anxieties associated without providing proper comfort for the effects of physical dependence can leave a person without options to mitigate the intense feelings. This may cause them to turn back to an addictive substance or behavior to make the symptoms stop.
Frequently Ask Questions:
• What is physical dependence on an addictive substance?
Physical dependence is defined by the body's reliance on a substance or behavior to aptly perform regular functions, making it incredibly difficult to operate when the addiction is suddenly denied.
• What are some common physical symptoms of dependence or withdrawal?
Common physical symptoms can include increased heart rate, muscle cramps, shaking, nausea, vomiting, increased blood pressure, exhaustion, and fatigue.
• How is psychological dependence different from physical dependence?
Psychological dependence is the mind's belief that it needs to engage with an addictive practice, affecting an individual's perception of themselves and their environment, often without the physical symptoms present in physical dependence.
• Can psychological dependence still have a real-world impact even though it's mental?
Yes, despite being relegated to one’s mental state, psychological dependence can have several real-world effects on an individual, such as fueling further substance use and deteriorating strained relationships.
• Why is it important to address both physical and psychological dependence simultaneously during recovery?
Addressing both simultaneously is crucial because focusing on only the physical side can create gaps in coping and increase the chance of relapse, while ignoring the physical discomfort can cause a person to return to the addictive behavior to make the symptoms stop.
Your journey toward prolonged sobriety, tackling both the physical and enduring psychological sides of dependence, is a difficult one, but it's a step we are ready to take with you. At Chateau Health and Wellness , we understand that recovery needs a holistic approach and a plan as unique as your symptoms. We offer specialized, customized strategies and therapeutic approaches like art therapy, yoga, and individual, group, and family counseling to help you cope with your specific needs and goals. Our trained professionals are committed to helping you move through the complexities of your physical and psychological dependence. Don't face this challenge alone; let us help you take the essential first step toward your future. Call us today at (435) 222-5225 to speak to a caring, trained staff member and begin building your personalized recovery plan.
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About The Author
Ben Pearson, LCSW - Clinical Director
With 19 years of experience, Ben Pearson specializes in adolescent and family therapy, de-escalation, and high-risk interventions. As a former Clinical Director of an intensive outpatient program, he played a key role in clinical interventions and group therapy. With 15+ years in wilderness treatment and over a decade as a clinician, Ben has helped countless individuals and families navigate mental health and recovery challenges.
Danny Warner, CEO of Chateau Health and Wellness
Brings a wealth of experience in business operations, strategic alliances, and turnaround management, with prior leadership roles at Mediconnect Global, Klever Marketing, and WO Investing, Inc. A graduate of Brigham Young University in Economics and History, Danny has a proven track record of delivering results across diverse industries. His most transformative role, however, was as a trail walker and counselor for troubled teens at the Anasazi Foundation, where he directly impacted young lives, a personal commitment to transformation that now drives his leadership at Chateau.
Austin Pederson, Executive Director of Chateau Health and Wellness
Brings over eight years of experience revolutionizing mental health and substance abuse treatment through compassionate care and innovative business strategies. Inspired by his own recovery journey, Austin has developed impactful programs tailored to individuals facing trauma and stress while fostering comprehensive support systems that prioritize holistic wellness. His empathetic leadership extends to educating and assisting families, ensuring lasting recovery for clients and their loved ones.
