DRUG DEPENDENCE Meaning and
Definition
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Drug dependence refers to a physiological and psychological condition in which an individual develops a compulsive need for a particular substance, which can be a drug or medication. It is characterized by a strong desire or craving to continue using the substance, difficulty in controlling or stopping its consumption, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the substance is discontinued or reduced. Drug dependence is often associated with tolerance, where the individual requires larger amounts of the substance to achieve the desired effect.
Physiologically, drug dependence occurs as the body adapts to the presence of the substance and becomes reliant on it to function normally. This leads to changes in the brain chemistry, particularly in reward and motivation pathways, which reinforce the behavior of drug-seeking and use. Psychologically, drug dependence is fueled by the positive reinforcement experienced from the substance's effects, creating a cycle of seeking and using the drug to achieve pleasure or escape negative emotions.
Drug dependence can have severe consequences on an individual's physical and mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. It can lead to social isolation, financial difficulties, impaired decision-making abilities, and increased risk of accidents or injuries. Treatment for drug dependence often involves a combination of medical interventions, such as detoxification and medication-assisted therapy, as well as psychological therapies, like counseling and behavioral interventions. Additionally, social support and lifestyle changes are crucial in helping individuals overcome drug dependence and maintain long-term recovery.
Common Misspellings for DRUG DEPENDENCE
- srug dependence
- xrug dependence
- crug dependence
- frug dependence
- rrug dependence
- erug dependence
- deug dependence
- ddug dependence
- dfug dependence
- dtug dependence
- d5ug dependence
- d4ug dependence
- dryg dependence
- drhg dependence
- drjg dependence
- drig dependence
- dr8g dependence
- dr7g dependence
- druf dependence
- druv dependence
Etymology of DRUG DEPENDENCE
The word "drug dependence" has its etymology rooted in the following terms:
1. Drug: The term "drug" originated from the Middle English word "drogge" and the Old French word "drogue", both of which referred to medicinal substances sourced from plants. These words were ultimately derived from the Dutch word "droge", meaning "dry". Over time, the term "drug" broadened to encompass both medicinal and recreational substances.
2. Dependence: The term "dependence" comes from the Latin word "dependēre", which comprises "de-" (meaning "down") and "pendēre" (meaning "to hang"). It initially referred to a state of being supported or reliant on something or someone, but it later took on the connotation of addiction or reliance on substances.
Similar spelling word for DRUG DEPENDENCE
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