Definition:

Dependence is defined as the state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else. When speaking in terms of addictions, dependence refers to a person's reliance on a substance to do something for them or change the way that they are feeling.

The current The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V) uses substance use disorders with a level of severity to address substance-related illnesses as opposed to using substance use, abuse, or dependence as in previous issues.

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addiction SUD Substance Use Disorder