Note: The views expressed in this article do not necessarily align with those of the Open Discussion Movement. It’s purpose is simply to provide additional dialogue.
This outside perspective comes from Summit BHS. Before getting to the article, here is some information on the contributor:
Headquartered in Franklin, TN, Summit BHC was established to develop and operate a network of leading behavioral health centers throughout the country. Summit BHC’s sole focus is on the provision and management of specialty chemical dependency and addiction disorder services within a flexible and dynamic continuum of care. Our treatment facilities are specialized solely in helping adults and families suffering from addiction to alcohol and other drugs while offering a solution to the stressors that drive the addiction, providing a path to change and ensuring ongoing support for a restored life.
-Summit BHC
The article expands on the ideas expressed in our recent post outlining the spectrum of addiction. As the articles title implies, it provides an interesting differentiation between chemical dependency versus substance abuse.
Substance abuse precedes chemical dependency, but is directly related. If a substance user can quit, and once the substance has left their system, they no longer crave or obsess about the substance. This person is not suffering from addiction. If the same substance user is noticing that their using is out of control and are still unable to stop, they are now abusing the substance, they may in fact suffer from addiction.
-Summit BHC
The full article is available at the link below. Let us know what you think about the difference between chemical dependency and substance abuse!