Psychological dependence happens when you feel an emotional need to take a chemical substance. Surprisingly, you can be psychologically dependent upon a drug without being physically dependent on it. However, in many cases, dependence is both psychological and physical. Dependence is the root of substance use disorder, and it’s the reason why attempting detox on your own is so difficult. If you’re struggling with drug dependency in Pennsylvania or the surrounding area, The Ranch PA in Hanover can help you break free.
Psychological Dependence Defined
Psychological dependence is an emotional change that happens after you take a drug. It’s a sort of craving for the way the drug makes you feel. It’s not surprising that people become psychologically dependent on drugs such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or illicit drugs like heroin or meth. When you first them, these substances make you feel great. You may get a euphoric rush or a warm, relaxed feeling as though all is right in the world. It’s this initial response that people are chasing when they become psychologically dependent on a drug. Unfortunately, it’s what comes after that makes that brief respite not worth the trouble.
Side Effects of Psychological Dependence
The side effects psychological dependence on a drug include those issues that aren’t physical. Physical side effects include conditions that affect your body, such as elevated heart rate and blood pressure, respiratory problems, and organ damage. Psychological side effects impact your mental state. These may include:
- Hallucinations
- Cravings
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Memory loss
The psychological effects of substance use disorder can be minimally impactful, or they may interfere with your mind so badly that life becomes unmanageable. Psychological side effects of drug use can make you feel like you’re losing your mind, like bugs are crawling all over you, or like someone or something is after you and trying to cause you harm. They tend to worsen the longer you use the drug. Consequently, it’s best to seek help from a drug and alcohol treatment center in Hanover, PA early on.
Treatment for Psychological Dependence
To date, several treatments are available to heal the psychological side of drug addiction. These include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and contingency management, among others. There’s great power to be claimed in talking about your addiction and how it impacts you today versus how you envision your future. The best programs are ones that provide treatment for both mind and body. Holistic treatment that addresses the client as a whole person with feelings, emotions, thoughts, and ideas, as well as a substance use disorder, seem to produce the best results. Treating the drug problem, as well as any co-occurring mental health issues, is most conducive to healing and recovery.
When You’re Ready to Reach Out
When you’re ready to seek help for substance use disorder, The Ranch PA in Hanover, PA is ready to assist you or your loved one. Situated on a quiet, private campus in the scenic hills of Pennsylvania, The Ranch PA offers resort-level care. Our clients benefit from an assortment of amenities that include a pool, fitness center, tennis courts, and more. Our upscale accommodations make your recovery experience memorable and your struggle just a little bit easier. At The Ranch PA, you’ll find the behavioral counseling needed to shake off the bonds of psychological dependence. You’ll benefit from the knowledge and experience of highly trained staff, and you’ll be among supportive peers and clinicians who are invested in your recovery. When you’re ready for healing to begin and a new path to open up in front of you, give The Ranch PA a call at 717.969.9126. Find your path to recovery. The first step is yours; we’ll help with the rest.
