1. A serious physical or psychological addiction to a substance or behavior that significantly impairs functioning and causes substantial distress
He struggled with severe dependence on alcohol for many years.
Ele lutou contra uma dependência severa de álcool por muitos anos.
2. A state of reliance on another person or institution that is extreme and debilitating
The elderly patient's severe dependence on caregivers limited her independence.
A dependência severa da paciente idosa em relação aos cuidadores limitava sua independência.
3. In medical contexts, an advanced stage of addiction characterized by withdrawal symptoms and loss of control
Severe dependence on prescription opioids requires comprehensive treatment.
A dependência severa de opioides prescritos requer tratamento abrangente.