What is Chemical Dependency?

Chemical dependency is an unhealthy addiction to a mood-altering substance such as alcohol and/or drugs. This addiction is characterized by an extended use that has developed into a priority in which they continually seek more of the drug, constantly think about it, use it, or is recovering from its use. This habitual addiction is classified as a physical and/or psychological disorder by an overpowering desire for the substance, which is a progressive and chronic illness, and if left untreated can become fatal.

Types of Chemical Dependency

Different categories of abused substances are:
• Alcohol- An addiction and/or abuse of alcohol is the most popular of all drug problems today where over 13% of U.S. adults will become alcohol addicts in their lifetime. This occurs when a large amount of alcohol is recurrently consumed while there is a disregard to any negative effects it may have on the ability of the person to control themselves in the moment, their long-term physical health or relationships and priorities they may have.

• Drugs- An addiction and/or abuse of drugs are characteristic of highly addictive stimulants used to alter moods despite the adverse consequences of the continued use. Stimulants, inhalants, cannabinoids, depressants, opioids and morphine derivatives, anabolic steroids, hallucinogens and prescription drugs are the major categories of drugs in use.

   On average, many chemically dependent users will have a primary drug of choice although experimentation with other drugs has occurred. Again, out of all the various drugs abused, the greatest drug problem today is alcohol abuse.