According to Dual Recovery Anonymous, a 12-step recovery organization, the term chemical dependency is interchangeable with drug addiction, substance abuse and alcoholism. Chemical dependency refers to an addiction to a mood-altering substance. The drug may be illegally obtained or given by prescription. The fine line is when an addict must have the chemical every day to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Characteristics
A chemically dependent person has lost the power of choice and must use the chemical to maintain the status quo. The condition is classified as a disease by the American Medical Association and cuts across all social, economical and racial divides. The disease is progressive and, if left untreated, can be fatal. Despite legal, health, relationship and financial consequences, an addict who has become dependent on drugs cannot stop without treatment or intervention. While an addict may be able to stop for short periods of time, he almost always returns to his drug of choice without treatment. As the disease progresses, the chemically dependent person will become increasing obsessed with the drugs to the exclusion of all else. At the same time, chemical dependency is most often characterized by a classic denial of the problem.
Symptoms
The symptoms of chemical dependency depend on the type of substance and the duration of the addiction. There are many physical effects that are short-term and discontinue once the substance has left the body. Other physical and psychological effects are more long lasting. In addition to the denial and isolation often exhibited by drug addicts, there are other signs of abuse, such as memory loss and liver failure from alcohol abuse and infertility and lung cancer from continued marijuana use. Cocaine users often suffer from heart disease and stroke, while heroin users suffer from blood infections and pulmonary disorders. Addiction to prescription pain medication can result in serious depression, constant joint pain and seizures.
Withdrawals
Like the symptoms, withdrawals vary depending on the level of the addiction and the general health of the substance abuser. The detoxification process is two-fold and includes psychological and physical withdrawal symptoms that are uncomfortable and difficult. Physical withdrawal symptoms can be managed in medical treatment facilities with medication, while the psychological withdrawal symptoms typically require long-term treatment through ongoing therapy or a 12-step recovery program. The National Institute of Drug Abuse reports that intense cravings can last for up to a year for all substances from painkillers to heroin or speed. Without ongoing psychological support and therapy to uncover underlying mental issues, addicts can display aggressive behavior, suffer from serious depression and eventually relapse.
