Most drugs, used too often or in substantial quantities, cause us to become physically dependent on them in order to feel okay. The process of withdrawal (when you stop using the drug) can be difficult, painful and in some situations, require medical intervention. Alcohol addiction can cause the body to adjust itself to such a degree that in extreme cases, alcohol becomes the only form of nourishment that the body will accept. A long term alcoholic will become malnourished and their body will begin to shut down if they stop drinking.

In the case of other drugs, like cocaine, the process of withdrawal will often cause you to feel physically sick and uncomfortable. In these circumstances, a detox program is usually recommended prior to the commencement of counselling. (This article is electronically protected – Copyright © Associated Counsellors & Psychologists Sydney PTY LTD)

Depending on the drug and the length of use, withdrawal symptoms can range form feeling flu-ish, running a fever, headaches or a general feeling of discomfort, confusion, or more significant physical effects like hallucinations or seizures. Withdrawal can last from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the drug and the degree to which a person has become addicted. Some drugs, such as crack cocaine, can have withdrawal symptoms begin within a few hours of the last use of the drug. This is one of the reasons these drugs can be so addictive: the withdrawal symptoms can begin so quickly that one feels an almost immediate urge to re-use the drug in order to feel good or even to feel relatively normal.

While some drugs, like nicotine, morphine or heroin, are physiologically addictive, that is the brain becomes dependent on its presence in the blood stream to function, other drugs are more psychologically addictive, like Marijuana. Psychological addiction is a very compelling reason for repeated use of a certain drug and can be just as dangerous as physiological addiction. It is possible for one to develop a psychological addiction to the use of a drug first and then develop a physiological independence after prolonged use. Imagine, for example, that you are a young university student who is shy and nervous when you go out to clubs and meet new people. You might start drinking alcohol and become psychologically dependent on getting drunk to have a good time when you go out with your friends. After some time of prolonged abuse of alcohol your body will develop a physiological addiction to alcohol. (This page is electronically copyright protected – do not copy – Copyright © Associated Counsellors & Psychologists Sydney PTY LTD)