What is the difference between alcohol dependence and alcohol addiction?

When it comes to alcohol use, it's important to understand the differences between alcohol dependence and alcohol addiction. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to distinct concepts that have different impacts on the person’s health and well-being.  

Also read: Spotting the Warning Signs of Alcohol Addiction in Yourself or a Loved One

What is alcohol dependence?

Alcohol dependence, also known as alcohol dependence or alcoholism, refers to a physical dependence on alcohol. This means that a person's body becomes accustomed to the presence of alcohol and requires it in order to function normally. 

When someone constantly drinks alcohol, the body also develops “tolerance”. This means that their body will require more alcohol in order to feel the same effects. As a result, they might increase their alcohol intake over time. When someone with alcohol dependence stops drinking, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, sweating, and seizures. 

Symptoms of alcohol dependence 

Alcohol dependence refers to the body's physical reliance on alcohol. Some common symptoms of physical alcohol dependence include:

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking, such as tremors, sweating, and anxiety

• Needing to drink more and more to achieve the same effects (tolerance)

• Developing a physical dependence on alcohol, where you need to drink to function normally

Also read: How Do I Know if I’m Experiencing Alcohol Withdrawal?

What is alcohol addiction?

Alcohol addiction refers to psychological dependence on alcohol. This means that a person has a strong desire to drink and may feel unable to control their drinking habits. They may continue to drink even when it causes negative consequences in their life, such as damaging relationships or impacting their work or school performance. 

It's important to note that alcohol dependence and addiction often go hand in hand. Someone who is physically dependent on alcohol may also be psychologically addicted to it, and vice versa. However, it is possible to be dependent on alcohol without being addicted to it or to be addicted to alcohol without being physically dependent on it. 

Symptoms of alcohol addiction

Some common symptoms of alcohol addiction, also known as alcohol use disorder, include:

• A strong craving or urge to drink alcohol

• Difficulty controlling your drinking, including how much you drink and how often

• Continuing to drink despite negative consequences, such as problems with relationships, work, or health

• Neglecting activities and responsibilities in favour of drinking

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking, such as tremors, sweating, and anxiety

• Needing to drink more and more to achieve the same effects (tolerance)

• Developing a physical dependence on alcohol, where you need to drink to function normally

It's important to note that alcohol addiction is a complex and multifaceted disorder, and not everyone who experiences these symptoms will have the same level of severity.  

Also read: Alcohol Withdrawals and Hangovers: All You Need to Know

What is the difference between alcohol addiction and dependence? 

Understanding the distinctions between these two concepts can help individuals seeking help for alcohol-related issues get the treatment that is best suited for them. For example, someone who is physically dependent on alcohol may require medical supervision during the detox process, while someone who is primarily struggling with addiction may benefit more from therapy and support groups. This is because just alcohol dependence is primarily psychological in nature, whereas dependence is physical and requires medical support. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol-related issues, it's important to seek help from a qualified professional. There is no shame in admitting that you need help, and with the right support, it is possible to overcome alcohol dependence and addiction and live a healthy, fulfilling life.