What does substance/chemical dependence involve?

Substance or chemical dependence is characterized by a compulsive pattern of using a substance despite negative consequences, leading to a physical and psychological reliance on that substance. This includes chronic intoxication from repeated use, where individuals may exhibit tolerance—needing larger amounts of the substance to achieve the same effect—and withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.

The emphasis on chronic intoxication highlights that dependence often entails habitual use that can impair daily functioning, health, and well-being. This continuous cycle of use not only indicates a reliance on the substance for normal functioning but also reflects the severity of the dependence developed over time.

In contrast to the other options, periodic cravings for food do not equate to substance dependence, as they are a normal part of eating behavior and do not reflect a pathological condition. Non-dependence on substances, as the term suggests, indicates the absence of addiction or dependence, which directly opposes the concept of chemical dependence. Enhanced physical performance is not a characteristic of substance dependence; in fact, dependence often leads to negative effects on physical health and performance over time. Therefore, the recognition of chronic intoxication underscores the complex nature of substance dependence and its impact on an individual's life.