Why does an individual becomes dependent on drugs or alcohol?

Dependence is the tendency of the body to manifest a characteristic and unpleasant withdrawal syndrome if regular dose of drugs/alcohol is abruptly discontinued.

It is characterized by anxiety, shakiness, nausea and sweating, which may be relieved when use is resumed again.

In some cases, withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life threatening and the person may need medical supervision.

Dependence leads the patient to ignore all social norms in order to get sufficient funds to satiate his/her needs. These results in many social adjustment problems.