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Codependency is a type of dysfunctional relationship pattern in which one person relies excessively on another. Usually, it occurs between two people who are either close family members or intimate partners and involves an unhealthy level of reliance on the other person for emotional support, validation, and identity.
This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, low self-worth, and resentment from both parties involved.
Fortunately, treatments available can help individuals overcome codependent relationships and addiction while learning how to develop healthier connections with others.
Let’s unpack the intricacies of codependent addiction and explore how to tackle it through therapy effectively!
Codependency is a behavioral construct that involves a complex set of emotions and behaviors that stem from an inability to be interdependent with others in healthy ways.
The causes of codependency are varied, but there are some common themes. Many times, codependent personality is associated with a person’s childhood experiences or family dynamics.
Past romantic relationships characterized by trauma or abuse can also cause dependent personality disorder.
Additionally, people can develop codependent traits if they have experienced neglect or abandonment from an early age.
People with a codependent personality disorder often have difficulty recognizing their own needs and feelings and instead try to meet the needs of others to gain acceptance and approval.
This can lead to an unhealthy cycle of trying to please someone who is unable or unwilling to meet their needs.
In addition, codependent people often become emotionally invested in the other person’s behavior and decisions and may be unable to recognize or address their own needs as a result.
Ultimately, these poor boundaries can lead to feelings of resentment, guilt, and even depression.
Common signs that someone may be struggling with codependent disorder include:
Codependency can have a significant impact on recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. People in recovery are often vulnerable to codependent relationships, as they may seek out people who will support them or enable their behavior.
Unfortunately, this can be harmful to sobriety, as it can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and resentment, creating an environment of relapse and self-destructive behavior.
Therefore, it is important to recognize signs of codependency in order to prevent it from affecting recovery.
Fortunately, there are treatment programs that address substance abuse, mental illness, and the codependent relationships that often accompany these disorders.
The first step in treating codependency is recognizing it as a problem and seeking help from a qualified mental health professional.
Treatments typically focus on helping the individual identify and change unhealthy behavior patterns, develop better communication skills, set healthy boundaries, and learn how to prioritize their needs.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often used to help individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and can be extremely helpful in addressing codependency issues.
Additionally, support groups such as Codependents Anonymous can also be an excellent resource for those looking to connect with others who are struggling with similar issues.
Codependency can be a complex issue to address, but it is possible to learn how to create healthy interdependence in relationships with the help of professional guidance and support.
With the proper treatment, individuals can learn how to recognize their own needs and feelings, set boundaries, and develop healthier relationships with others.
Addiction and codependency often go hand-in-hand, so it is essential to choose a treatment center specializing in both.
Prevail Recovery Center offers comprehensive South Florida drug addiction treatment that emphasizes treating the underlying causes of addiction, including codependent behavior patterns.
Our experienced team of clinicians is dedicated to helping individuals understand their codependent behaviors and how to change them in order to overcome codependency.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction and codependency, reach out today to Prevail Recovery Center for help.
We are here to offer compassionate, evidence-based addiction treatment in South Florida for individuals of all ages so that they can reclaim their lives!
Prevail Recovery Center is a trusted drug & alcohol treatment program in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and Knoxville, Tennessee that offers individualized, evidence-based programming.
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