In common understanding, tolerance and physical dependency are often explained as the same condition. On these terms mostly drugs or alcohol affect a person, which affects an individual’s body and brain. Knowing the difference between tolerance, dependency, and addiction can help a lot of people who need to achieve restoration.

At Manas Hospital, our therapists and addiction specialists offer personalised healing options that treat substance addiction. If you are finding it difficult to recover from addiction to substances, we can help you heal, no matter the hardship of the condition. Reach out to us to help you change your life.

Understanding addiction

Addiction is an enduring brain disease, when the addiction is associated with drug or alcohol issues, this is also known as substance use disorder. Addictions have no cure, but this can be handled with the treatment, “DRUG,” which determines any substance that causes the body to react.

Tolerance

If you take a medication for depression to sleep, it may work very simply at a very first dose. For instance, when you first use a sedative to help you sleep, it may be very effective with just a small dose. However, as time passes, your body can develop a tolerance, meaning you’ll need a larger dose to achieve the same effect. The same rules apply to alcohol. Starting just a few drinks might make you feel intoxicated, but with regular use, it mostly takes more alcohol, consumed more frequently, to feel the same level of impacts.

Physical dependence is not the same as addiction, though it can eventually lead to it. While tolerance refers to needing more of a substance to feel its effects, physical dependence occurs when your body becomes used to having the drug in its system. If you suddenly stop taking it, you may experience withdrawal symptoms, which can be pretty severe.

Tolerance or Dependence Have Crossed Over to Addiction

While tolerance and physical strength are the natural approach to the same drug or alcohol use, which can sometimes proceed into addiction, it is vital to notice when the line has been crossed; it is then crucial for early intervention and healing.

1. Loss of Control
You find it difficult to stop using the substance, even if you’ve tried to quit.
You use more than you intended, or more than arranged.

2. Craving
You experience strong, often overwhelming urges to use the substance.

3. Continued Use even in Consequences
You keep using the drug or alcohol even though it’s causing issues with your well, relationships, work, or school.

Conclusion

Noticing these signs early can assist in avoiding harm and pave the way for productive treatment and support. If you or someone you know is showing these symptoms, reaching out to a medical professional or addiction specialist is a critical next step. Reach out to the Manas Hospital to get a consultation.