Dependence: Physical and mental dependence, withdrawal symptoms.
Dependence is a condition during which one is unable to control or restrict use of a substance or change one's behaviour, despite the fact that it has a negative impact on one's life. There are various types and classifications of dependence, the first of which could be classification into:
- Chemicals: alcohol, drugs, medication.
- Behaviour: games, shopping, food, internet.
Classification of dependence also divides dependence:
By substance or behaviour:
Division into two main categories - substance and non-substance dependence.
By type of substance:
Dependence on alcohol, drugs, tobacco, etc.
By behaviour:
Dependence on gambling, shopping, the internet, etc.
By legislation:
legal and illegal substances or behaviour
Our centre primarily focuses on legal addictive substances, but we also frequently have clients who suffer from multiple types of dependence, which is why we work with our clients individually depending on their requirements. Dependence on alcohol and cocaine is a frequent combination, which clients seek our help with. Another frequent combination is medication and alcohol.
What leads to development of dependence?
Genetic predisposition:
some individuals may be genetically predisposed to develop a dependence.
Phycological factors:
Stress, depression, anxiety, experienced trauma and many other factors can contribute to the development of dependence, and often go hand in hand with each other. Most of our clients don't come to us with just dependence. Anxiety, depression or burn-out syndrome are often a crucial factor in why a client has been unable to keep their alcohol, medication or drug use under control. The client's health may also play a role. This is why we always treat the client holistically. The holistic approach and supplementary activities, such as TCM elements, the importance of diet, etc. are components of our programmes.
Social circumstances:
the environment and the influence of the family and the community in which the client is brought up can also play a crucial role. We often encounter this as an ommited factor, which may have a significant influence on development of dependence however.
How to fight your dependence?
Professional treatment:
Psychological and psychiatric counselling, along with group therapy, are the ideal environment for managing treatment and overcoming dependence.
Specialised detoxification:
Before you begin residential treatment at Alkos, you may need to undergo in-patient treatment at a detoxification facility in order to prevent health complications associated with withdrawal symptoms - we always arrange this with clients individually.
Recognising and understanding various types of addiction is important in order to provide effective help. Specialised help, community support and your own motivation can be crucial factors in overcoming addiction and achieving a healthier lifestyle. We will discuss individual types of addiction in the next article we are preparing for you.
