Physical Dependency

Physical dependencies make physical changes to the way our bodies operate. Generally, physical dependencies are caused by drugs like heroin, methamphetamine, alcohol, nicotine, and even something as simple as caffeine. When someone stops using one of these substances, they will experience physical pain and discomfort.

Depending on the type of drug and the severity of the abuse, symptoms of physical withdrawal can include headaches, tremors, dizziness, aching muscles, and insomnia. Take caffeine as an example. When someone has a cup of coffee every morning, their body becomes dependent on the caffeine. If they skip their morning cup, they will most likely become tired and get a headache. Of course, with caffeine, the withdrawal symptoms are much less severe than a drug like heroin. At Adult and Teen Challenge USA, we know that the only way to overcome physical withdrawals is through detox. With all physical dependencies, the withdrawal symptoms will diminish over time.

Mental Dependency

Not every drug has physically addictive ingredients, but any drug use can lead to a mental dependency. A mental dependency is simply a desire to a have a drug. Although the user may not experience any physical withdrawal symptoms, they may think they need the drug to feel happy or fulfilled. Marijuana is one of the most common mentally addictive substances. Although marijuana has no physically addictive properties, many marijuana smokers feel they need to smoke to concentrate, feel happy, or function in their social lives.

Mental Cravings

Once any mental or physical withdrawals symptoms have subsided, former addicts will experience mental cravings for a long period of time. Mental cravings usually occur when someone is in a situation that they associate with drug use. For example, if you used to drink with a certain group of friends, you may have a mental craving for alcohol when you are with them. At Adult and Teen Challenge USA, we know that beating mental cravings requires will-power and long-term recovery.

Adult and Teen Challenge

At Adult and Teen Challenge Wisconsin, we know that addiction recovery is different for everyone, but all former addicts are likely to experience mental cravings. Beating a mental craving requires long-term addiction recovery that focuses on reassessing behavior and ways-of-thought. Our holistic, faith-based approach gives people the mental tools and spiritual guidance to fully recover from their addictions. To find a treatment center near you, contact Adult and Teen Challenge Wisconsin today.

If you or a loved one is in need of Alcohol and/or Other Drug Abuse Treatment Services, and would like to learn more about our programs, please contact Adult and Teen Challenge Wisconsin today at 414-748-HELP(4357) or email at Intake@teenchallengeonline.com.

Teen Challenge Wisconsin Men’s Center:

Men’s Center of Hope accepts Men (18+), including those that are on parole, on probation.

P.O. Box 250771

Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53225

(414) 466-4415 office (414) 466-0793 fax

Teen Challenge Wisconsin Women’s Center:

The Robbie Dawson Home accepts Women (18+), including those that are on parole, on probation, on psychotropic meds.

Note: Program length is 12-16 months.

P.O Box 250771

Milwaukee, Wisconsin  53208

(414) 342-0909 office (414) 375-1875 fax