What is Chemical Dependency? A Christian Counselor Explains

Chemical dependency is an issue that spreads far and wide. Millions are held captive by alcohol abuse and drug addiction, which are arguably the two leading forms of chemical dependency. However, there tends to be an element of stigma surrounding drug and alcohol dependency of this sort. Many believe that it is a problem for the “down and out,” and that people “bring it on themselves.” Both of these assertions are fundamentally misguided.

Chemical dependency affects people from all walks of life. Indeed, many high-income individuals get addicted to prescription drugs and end up spending a vast amount of money to feed their habit, often leading to serious financial trouble.

With all these issues, it is so important to remember the humanity of those who fall victim to such dependency. We must never treat them as a “project” or coldly label them by their particular issue.

When addressing those who are struggling with chemical dependency, we must always seek to use “person first” language. For example, as counselors, we never identify our clients by their condition, i.e. “the schizophrenic,” “the depressed person” or “that addict.”

Are they someone who is battling with addictive behavior or mental illness? Yes, but it does not define them, and thus we must be careful about how we use our language in these areas.

What is Chemical Dependency?

So what exactly is “chemical dependency”?

Chemical dependency is the unhealthy dependence on a particular drug or substance, and it is often linked to an underlying pain or distress. This could be emotional or physical, or both.

For example, an individual may begin to take painkillers for back pain, but even after it has subsided, they develop a dependence on the drug to help them deal with life.

Or, someone who is suffering from depression may find that heroin is granting them a temporary relief from their emotional strife. Thus, they keep coming back for more. This is called chemical dependency. From a biological standpoint, these dependencies can become incredibly difficult to break, as the person must withdraw from that which they believe is making them feel better.

From a Christian perspective, we know that there is often an underlying spiritual battle for our lives, and thus we must understand that chemical dependency and emotional turmoil can very much become a part of this struggle.

It is also important to understand the subtle nuances of chemical dependency. Many believe that the theory of a “chemical hook” — a purely scientific inability to walk away from a drug – is outdated. As research develops, greater emphasis is being placed on one’s environment, genetics, and emotional well being as key factors in determining a person’s susceptibility to chemical dependency.

A key environmental factor to preventing chemical dependency could be finding employment. If a person is working and taking pride in their job, they are much more likely to attain a sense of fulfillment, and their need to become dependent on a chemical may lessen.

Finding true meaning in life can be an incredibly powerful antidote to the draws of chemical dependency. Indeed, that is where a living and breathing faith in Christ can truly change lives. In Jesus, we find true and lasting fulfillment and a purpose that will never grow faint.

With a Christian counselor, you will be helped to make strides towards this type of living; purposeful, healthy, and faith-filled. As we deal with our past hurts and pains through professional therapy, the hope is that we will become less dependent on chemical substances and will instead develop the tools required to start living a life of true fulfillment and freedom.