Professional help is often necessary for both the drug-user and family members and friends affected by the behavior. The types of intervention and rehabilitation services available today are more effective than ever before. The challenge is to connect to the appropriate treatment professional or agency. Levels of Dependency More than thirty years ago, the World Health Organization recommended the term drug dependence to describe the use of drugs on a periodic or continual basis. Tolerance refers to the need to use more and more of a drug to achieve the same effects.
Physical dependence occurs when the body needs the drug to be able to function.
Psychological dependence means the user relies on the drug for a sense of well-being and is convinced that he or she needs the drug in order to function. Withdrawal occurs when someone who is physically or psychologically dependent on a drug stops using the drug. It often includes both physical and psychological symptoms. Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse Alcoholism is the state of being physical dependent on the drug alcohol. A strong desire to continue drinking heavily is almost always present.