That’s why recognizing the signs and getting help is so important.
At a Glance
Becoming substance-dependent leads to tolerance and withdrawal.
It can involve the use of depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens, opiates, and marijuana.
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Problematic use often starts with experimentation and progresses to regular use and eventual dependence.
What Does It Mean to Be Substance Dependent?
Stimulants
Stimulants, which stimulate the brain and nervous system.Stimulantsinclude drugs likecocaineandamphetamines.
Amphetamines are also used in certain stimulant medications, likeRitalin, that help treat conditions likeADHD.
Marijuana
Marijuana produces a sense of happiness, calm, and relaxation.
The person may use the substance to try and fix negative feelings.
They lose all motivation to do anything else and display significant behavior changes.
Young people generally go through these stages much faster than adults do.
What Causes a Person to Become Substance Dependent?
This leads to a cycle of addiction and dependence that contributes to substance use disorder.
They can diagnose your condition or refer you to a healthcare provider who can.
Your healthcare provider will determine whether your symptoms matchthe criteria for substance use disorder listed in the DSM-5.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
National Institute on Drug Abuse.Is there a difference between physical dependence and addiction?.
Wada K.Abuse, dependence, and intoxication of substances.Nihon Rinsho.
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American Psychiatric Association.Substance-related and addictive disorders.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States.
National Library of Medicine.Substance use disorder.Medline Plus.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Substance abuse and chemical dependency.
