Codependency and Addiction the 7 Signs
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What is Codependency?
When one partner has intense emotional or physical demands, and the other partner spends most of their time meeting those needs, the relationship can become co-dependent. Frequently this will happen to the disadvantage of the co-dependent partner’s life, activities, and other relationships, and codependency results. You see codependency often with addiction.
Codependency can lead to a tough spiral in which the codependent partner takes care of and facilitates the loved one’s difficulties. Thereby making it easier for the loved one to perpetuate the difficult or harmful behaviors.
Top 7 Signs of Codependency and Addiction
Having Trouble Expressing Emotions
Those who are not very good at identifying their own emotions in a relationship vs. the other person. Or those who are unable to communicate how they feel in general are at risk for codependency.
They Are Often Caretakers
The individual’s primary need is to take care of others, frequently at the expense of taking care of themselves.
A Lack of Boundaries
The codependent individual might not understand the importance of setting boundaries for themselves or others. To feel secure, these people could give unsolicited advice, feel responsible for other people’s emotions, or try to manipulate or control others.
They May Have Low Self-Esteem
Outside of the relationship, the codependent person could feel unlovable and depend on the approval of others to experience a sense of personal, positive self-worth.
Are People Pleasers
For the codependent person, other people’s perspectives carry a lot of weight. This person will go to great lengths to maintain their good reputation with the other person regardless of how they are treated. The individual could experience overwhelming remorse or struggle to say “no” to others.
Defines Worth By Their Relationship
Because the codependent person believes that connections define them, they may have an obsessional focus on the person they are attached to. In reality, this relationship may not serve all of their emotional needs or have much intimacy.
Those Who Have Depression or Are Withdrawn
Depression can cause various issues, including warped thinking. A depressed person may withdraw and cut off other relationships that could help them learn what a healthy relationship looks like. It can also go hand-in-hand with a negative self-image.
What Does Codependancy Look Like?
Codependency is frequently observed in individuals who are in intimate relationships with addicts. This could be a spouse or family member, or even a friend.
It can show up in a variety of ways:
- Couples that use drugs concurrently
- Those who are close to adult family or significant others of drug users
- Children whose parents use drugs or are drug addicts
The co-dependant person might take drastic measures to keep the connection going based in fear; of being left behind, rejection, and of being alone. Desperate attempts to win the partner’s favor result from this need for acceptance and approval.
In many cases, the codependent resents the addict for being in that state but worries that if they get better, they will lose the addict or their position as their carer. Enabling is a common offense committed by codependents to support their partner and the union.
Sanctuary Recovery Foundation
Codependency and addiction need a supportive foundation from outside influence to facilitate change. Contact us to discover the benefits of living with others who will hold you accountable to pursue healthy relationships and remain sober.
