From Use to Dependence
How Repeated Exposure Can Lead to Tolerance, Withdrawal and a Changing Pattern of Use
This resource explores how repeated exposure to some substances and medicines can lead to physiological adaptation, tolerance, dependence and withdrawal.
It explains the important difference between frequent use, harmful use, physical dependence and addiction, including why a person can become physically dependent on a prescribed medicine without developing an addiction.
Withdrawal, negative reinforcement and safe reduction are also explored, with particular attention to why abruptly stopping certain substances or medicines can be unsafe.
Useful for: understanding tolerance and withdrawal, distinguishing dependence from addiction and recognising when reducing or stopping may require professional or medically supported care.
Space to Breathe Therapy
