Codependency
refers to a relationship where each person's dysfunctional behavior supports and encourages the other's. These behaviors, which can feel out of each person's control, often center around addiction, poor mental health, immaturity, irresponsibility, or under-achievement. Among the core characteristics of codependency is an excessive reliance on the other for approval and a sense of identity.
Am I codependent?
signs and symptoms of codependency
- feeling out of control in a relationship
- focus on the other person's need to change
- repeated agreements made by the codependent that violate his or her desire, comfort-level, or values
- lack of progress or success in personal endeavors
- feelings of resentment
- efforts to reduce the consequences of another person's behavior
How do I treat my codependency?
- Seek therapy from a professional who specializes in codependency, adult children of alcoholics, addiction, or family therapy. Codependency is a relational disorder, so it is necessary to seek assistance from a therapist who understands relationships, enmeshment, and individuation.
- Minimize or eliminate use of substances, including alcohol and marijuana. Whether or not your loved one is willing to do this, choosing to be sober allows you a better mental state to improve your situation. Because codependent relationships are often centered around substance abuse, eliminating these from your relationship will make improving your life much easier.
- Seek connection with friends and family. Codependent relationships can reduce appreciation and engagement in other relationships. We all need to be part of a community- not just one relationship- for fulfillment and health.
- Notice how limited you've allowed your decision-making to become. It is okay to make choices that serve your own needs, even if it wouldn't be the best option to someone else. We are each responsible for ourselves, so everytime you make a decision that doesn't serve you, you are the only one to blame.
- Check out a few AlAnon, CODA or ACOA groups. Whether or not your codependent relationship involves alcohol, the nature of codependent relationships is the same. If necessary, substitute the wording "alcohol" or "alcoholic" from these cost-free groups and literature with whatever makes sense for your relationship.
Typical Outcomes
With active recovery efforts, people who once felt trapped in codependent relationships can feel the freedom and empowerment of enjoying interdependent relationships. Codependents often describe themselves as "independent," because they feel like they get no help from others. The truth is, they are doing things for everyone else, not taking care of themselves, and therefore feel more alone than they need to feel. Freedom from codependent behaviors includes feelings of relief and happiness, increased energy, more fulfilling relationships with friends, family, and coworkers, and the ability to pursue goals beyond what was imagined possible before seeking treatment. Learning how to heal from emotional abuse includes learning to prioritize self-care.
Wondering how your body image may play in to CoDependency?
