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A member asked:
Describe how addiction differs from substance abuse ? isnt it the same
4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dependence: Abuse: periodic heavy use that negatively impacts life (I.e., weekend binge drinker who gets one or more DUIs)., but no physical/psychological dependence. Addiction: person experiences negative life outcomes from use as well as needs the substance to function, and has physical/psychological dependence - goes through withdrawal without substance and is preoccupied with use.
Answered 3/19/2018
2.6k views
Not the same: Substance abuse can be a casual use of a banned or prescribed drug. Addiction in a physiological reaction of dependency on a drug after protracted use. But abuse can lead to addiction.
Answered 6/25/2015
2.6k views
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