Being in a relationship can be fulfilling, especially when both partners maintain a balance between togetherness and their individual needs. However, when one or both partners rely on the relationship to validate their self-worth, it becomes a codependent relationship rather than a healthy one. Codependency can be hard to recognize, but five common signs include: not taking responsibility for personal feelings, unbalanced giving at personal expense, blurred boundaries, not thinking for oneself, and losing one's sense of self. In healthy relationships, both partners are responsible for their feelings, whereas in codependent relationships, individuals may need constant validation. Additionally, sacrificing one's needs to please a partner, blurring boundaries, or parroting a partner’s thoughts can erode independence. The most dangerous aspect of codependency is losing one's identity while trying to maintain the relationship. To avoid this, it’s important to set boundaries, maintain personal interests, and prioritize self-care. A healthy relationship is built on interdependence, where both partners support each other while maintaining a strong sense of individuality..