Codependancy

What is co-dependency?

Often referred to as relationship addiction, co-dependency is defined as the tendency to act overly submissive and to be excessively caring in ways that negatively impact quality of life and interpersonal relationships. Co-dependency is a learned behavior that can be passed down generations and is often developed in childhood. Co-dependency often has negative implications as the person who suffers from the disorder generally has trouble maintaining healthy and satisfying relationships. Individuals that suffer from co-dependency often are involved in relationships that are one-sided, abusive and/or destructive.

Who becomes co-dependent?

Alcohol and substance abuse has been linked to co-dependency as members of families that witness the substance abuse often learn co-dependent behaviors. The most commonly affected people are the spouses, parents, siblings, friends, or co-workers of an addicted individual. Co-dependants will often hold onto relationships regardless of the implications Often times, the children of addicts or children who were neglected or abused show strong signs of codependency. The social skills that they acquired during the important stages of childhood development carry on into adulthood. These social skills take form in obsessive caretaking, self sacrificing, controlling behaviors, the need to constantly please and receive approval.

How does codependency affect people’s lives?

There are several negative emotional behaviors that are associated with codependency. Often time individuals become categorical thinkers by which they view everything as black or white. No grey area exists in thought and individuals constantly think in turn of always versus never which can lead to strained social interactions. Secondly, individuals start to take all things very personally. Individuals believe that everything that is said or done to an individual is directed at them. The individual that believes everything is directed at him/her often times becomes very defensive, hostile and chooses to stay out of the public eye. In addition, individuals often over- analyze every situation which leads to a life full of thinking and very little relaxation.

Signs of co-dependency include but are not limited to:

• Low self-esteem
• Searching for outside relief to feel better
• Use of drugs or alcohol
• A strong desire for approval
• A sense of responsibility for others

Often, the concentration and attention of a co-dependent person is on a family member or friend that is ill or has some serious mental or health issue. Co-dependency leads to individuals sacrificing their own well being to care for the person who is need of help. The negligence of the importance of their own well being can often lead to co-dependent individuals living self destructive lives.

If you believe you may be suffering from a co-dependency disorder or if you know of someone who needs help, please don’t hesitate and call us today at 1(855)201-0121. We can be reached 24 hours a day and our staff is ready and willing to answer any and all of your questions relating to codependency.