Article
Codependency
From Good Therapy
At a Glance
Codependency involves prioritizing others' needs over one's own, leading to unbalanced and unhealthy relationships. Codependent individuals often try to "save" others from their issues, which can lead to personal harm. Common symptoms include low self-esteem, poor boundaries, a need to "save" others, self-denial, perfectionism, and control issues. Codependency often stems from childhood experiences in dysfunctional households. It can also develop in relationships involving addiction or abuse. While codependency isn't a mental health diagnosis, it is associated with conditions like depression and anxiety. Therapy can help individuals reduce codependent behaviors and develop healthier relationships.
The 5 Key Takeaways
Definition and Focus
Codependency is characterized by sacrificing one's own needs to meet the needs of others, with an extreme focus on other people, such as spouses or relatives. This often leads to thoughts and actions revolving around others rather than oneself.
Symptoms of Codependency
Common symptoms include low self-esteem, poor boundaries, a need to "save" others, self-denial, perfectionism, and control issues. Codependent individuals often deny their own needs and seek validation through helping others, leading to significant emotional distress.
Root Causes
Codependency typically originates in childhood, particularly in homes where emotions are ignored or punished. Children in such environments may take on adult responsibilities, leading to blurred boundaries and a deep-seated need to be needed.
Impact on Relationships
Codependency often manifests in relationships involving addiction or abuse. The codependent person may take on a caretaker role, enabling the partner's addiction or abusive behavior. This dynamic can prevent the partner from seeking necessary help and can also harm the codependent individual by worsening their mental health.
Mental Health Concerns and Therapy
While codependency itself is not a mental health diagnosis, it is linked to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. Therapy can help individuals identify and address codependent behaviors, fostering healthier relationships and improving overall well-being.
Good Therapy
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