One of the ways which addiction manifests is through psychological dependence. The term psychological dependence is often used to describe the mental and psychological responses to substance abuse. Often, these responses can leave an individual feeling helpless without substances rather than feeling physically ill. Psychological dependence can often lead to the development of co-occurring disorders, which refer to having co-existing mental illness and substance use disorder.
At Zelus Recovery, patients diagnosed with psychological dependence are given the support and treatment necessary to recover from their addiction. Substance addiction can be extremely harmful, and psychological dependence is no easier. Reach out to our Zelus Recovery team today by calling 208.518.0797 or filling out our online form to learn more about our comprehensive care for co-occurring disorders.
Psychological Dependence vs. Physiological Dependence
Physiological dependence is more often associated with addiction recovery. However, both psychological and physiological dependencies can be extremely harmful to those experiencing them. Understanding whether your dependence is psychological or physiological can encourage you to seek assistance in your path to recovery. Before speaking with a healthcare professional about your dependence, consider the common signs of psychological and physiological dependence.
The most common signs of psychological dependence include:
- Cravings
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability or restlessness without substance
- Appetite loss or increased appetite
- Not sleeping enough, or sleeping too much
The most common signs of physiological dependence are often physical withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
Some symptoms of psychological dependence can also be physical, such as cravings and issues with sleep. Because of this, it can be difficult to determine what dependency you may be experiencing. If you have noticed any of the above symptoms, it may be beneficial to contact us for a medical assessment to get a proper diagnosis.
Challenges of Co-Occurring Disorders
When a substance use disorder and a psychiatric disorder occur simultaneously, it can be defined as a co-occurring disorder. Compared to those with individual disorders, patients with co-occurring disorders may experience more severe medical and psychological challenges and may require treatment over longer periods.
Substances Associated with Psychological Dependence
Generally, it has been observed that all substances of abuse can be associated with both psychological and physical dependencies. However, some substances are associated with withdrawal symptoms that are primarily psychological.
These substances include:
- Stimulants
- Hallucinogenic drugs, such as LSD
- Inhalants
- Psychotropic medications
Substances associated with physical withdrawal symptoms include:
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Benzodiazepines
- Barbiturates
Many drugs of abuse are described as having both physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms. If you believe that you are experiencing withdrawal from any of these substances, contact our Zelus Recovery team today.
How to Stop Psychological Dependence
While stopping psychological dependence can be extremely difficult, there are ways to treat it. When entering a treatment program, the first step is to end the consumption of the substance. While you may experience withdrawal symptoms, our healthcare providers know what to expect and are ready to help you.
After this first step, continuous treatment will be necessary to help address the psychological dependence. At Zelus Recovery, we offer the services necessary to help you address your dependence.
Overcome Psychological Dependence at Zelus Recovery
Recovery can be nonlinear and is often challenging. More often than not, psychological and psychiatric care is necessary to encourage a patient to recover from addiction. If you have co-occurring disorders, it may be beneficial to seek extended psychological care.
At Zelus Recovery, we want our patients to feel comfortable. Our team is specially trained in telehealth treatment so that every patient receives the same treatment they would if they were in person. Because of all of the different ways that being psychologically dependent may present itself, there are various options for treatment plans. Contact us today by calling 208.518.0797 or completing our online contact form.
