Exploring Addiction, Dependency, and Healthy Choices
This is your brain on Drugs.
In the late 1980s, a public service announcement took the United States by storm. The ad campaign featured a man holding an egg, uncracked and untouched, stating “This is your brain”. He proceeded to crack the egg into a steaming hot frying pan and proclaimed, “This is your brain on drugs”. The camera panned to get a close-up of the frying pan, where the viewer can see the immediate and abrupt effects that the heat had on the egg. The simplicity and stark imagery of this PSA led to a massive conversation in the U.S. regarding the devastating effect of drug abuse on the brain.
Addiction continues to be pervasive worldwide and affects millions of people and families, it is crucial to strive to understand addiction by recognizing signs, knowing the effects and staying knowledgeable about the resources available for help and recovery.
Growing up, many of us heard that marijuana couldn’t cause addiction, only dependency. However, this myth has been debunked. Marijuana addiction is quite prevalent in Canada, with an estimated 9% of people developing an addiction while using (Government of Canada, 2024). Understanding the distinction between addiction and dependency is crucial for navigating substance use and behaviour effectively.
Defining Addiction and Dependency
‘Addiction’ and ‘dependence’, though related, are distinct concepts. Addiction is a complex condition characterized by a compulsive need to engage in rewarding stimuli, such as substances or behaviours, despite harmful consequences. It involves psychological and behavioural components, where the pursuit of the substance or activity becomes a primary focus, often at the expense of other areas of life (Szalavitz et al., 2021).
Dependency, on the other hand, refers to a physiological state where the body adapts to the presence of a substance. This can result in withdrawal symptoms if the substance is abruptly discontinued. Dependency can occur with many substances, including prescription medications like insulin, which manage chronic conditions without leading to addiction (Szalavitz et al., 2021).
Historical Context and Diagnostic Shifts
Historically, the term "dependence" was used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) to describe symptoms of addiction, such as uncontrollable drug-seeking behaviour. This led to confusion in treatment approaches and influenced how professionals addressed addiction for decades (O’Brien, 2010).
Recognizing the Impact on Daily Life
Understanding the difference between addiction and dependency helps in recognizing when casual indulgences may become problematic. Many people claim, "I can stop anytime, I just don't want to." This mindset can apply to various behaviours, from substance use to exercise and screen time. Even seemingly positive activities can become maladaptive if they start to interfere with daily life.
Self-Reflection and Awareness
To identify when a behaviour becomes maladaptive, consider asking yourself:
What purpose does this habit serve?
What benefits do I derive from it?
Was my intention positive when I started this behaviour?
How is this impacting my life now?
Am I engaging in this behaviour in a casual or harmful way?
Recognizing these nuances is key to distinguishing between healthy and maladaptive behaviours. Being informed about addiction and dependency can safeguard your mental and physical well-being and support your journey towards healthier choices.
Understanding addiction and dependency is vital for making informed decisions about substance use and behaviour. By reflecting on your habits and their impacts, you can foster a healthier, more fulfilling life. If you find yourself struggling, consider reaching out to Another Path Psychotherapy. We can work together to explore your relationship with these behaviours and help you find effective strategies for a healthier lifestyle.