When a substance is used regularly, a tolerance can develop when the body becomes accustomed to it. This means that the user may find that increasing amounts of the substance are needed to create the same effect. This is when alcohol or drugs become an individual s dominant concern to the detriment of other aspects of their life. Failure to use enough of the drug or alcohol everyday could lead to physical withdrawal symptoms. Specialist medical help may be needed to end the dependence.
Psychological dependence is the habitual use of alcohol or drugs.
It can be away of trying to deal with stress, depression, low self-esteem or anxiety. People may use alcohol or drugs regularly to feel or behave differently, e.g. to become sociable or energetic. Specialist help, such as counselling, may be needed to end the dependence. Alcohol, for instance, used to create feelings of relaxation and disinhibition in social settings, can be inappropriate and cause problems in the workplace. Due to slow reactions, depressant use is particularly dangerous whilst driving or operating machinery.