What leads to psychological dependence in an individual?

Psychological dependence often develops when an individual feels that they cannot cope with daily stressors or challenges in life without relying on a substance. This form of dependence is characterized by a perceived need for the drug to function normally or to achieve a sense of well-being. When someone repeatedly turns to a substance to manage stress, this reinforces the belief that they need the drug to handle emotions or situations effectively.

Creating a reliance on the drug for emotional support or comfort can lead to a cycle where the individual feels increasingly unable to cope without it, solidifying their psychological dependence. Over time, this can adversely affect various aspects of their life, such as relationships, work, and overall mental health.

While feelings of pleasure from drug use can certainly contribute to an attraction to the substance, they do not inherently lead to dependence. Casual usage might not involve the need to use the drug to manage stress, and physical withdrawal symptoms are more associated with physical dependence rather than psychological dependence.