Physical dependency

 

This is a dependency that develops through repeated use of a drug (such as alcohol, heroin, tranquillisers) which changes body chemistry. It means your body develops a hunger for the drug, which you have to keep feeding.

Tolerance develops at different rates in individuals to the effects of any drug (including alcohol), which means that you get less effect as you continue to use the same amount, or that you need more to get the same effect.

With a physical dependency, withdrawal symptoms will occur when a person suddenly stops drinking alcohol or using other drugs. The presence of physical withdrawal symptoms does not necessarily mean that the person is addicted.