substance dependence
Compulsive drug reliance
Substance dependence is a clinical term for addiction—a condition where someone cannot stop using a drug despite harmful consequences.
It typically involves tolerance (needing more to achieve the same effect) and withdrawal symptoms when use stops.
The term emphasizes the physiological and psychological grip that alcohol, opioids, or other substances can have: His substance dependence began with prescribed painkillers.
- brain chemistryBrain's chemical signaling processes
- alcoholIntoxicating hydroxyl compound
- compulsionIrresistible urge to act
- drug seekingPursuing intoxicants compulsively
- opioidsReceptor-binding pain relievers
detoxification · relapse · withdrawal · cold turkey · liver damage · tolerance · stimulants · craving · support groups · recovery journey · benzodiazepines · overdose risk · mindfulness practices · nicotine · emotional dysregulation · stigma · cannabis · denial
substance dependencesobriety
Unimpaired mental state
clean living · abstinence · drug-free · recreational use · teetotalism
substance dependencerecovery
Regaining what was lost
sobriety · remission · clean · rehabilitation · wellness
substance dependencerecreational use
Non-professional enjoyment purpose
social drinking · moderate drinking · non-use · teetotalism · abstemiousness
substance, substances, substantial, substantially, substantive, substantiate, substantiated, substantiation, insubstantial