Codependency, also known as “relationship addiction,” is an emotional and behavioral condition that prevents individuals from having healthy, mutually satisfying relationships. It’s a relationship problem – but not with someone else, with yourself. People who are codependent place the focus on others to help alleviate their own pain or inner emptiness. Codependency is chronic and progressive, meaning symptoms worsen over time without intervention and treatment. Many experts believe that codependency begins in childhood due to a dysfunctional family environment.

Are You Showing Signs Of Codependency?
Codependency in recovery can be a slippery slope into relapse. To safeguard your sobriety and your mental health, it’s smart to learn the signs. After all, the first step in changing unhealthy behaviors is to recognize it. 

Codependency can range in severity and, of course, only a qualified professional can make an official diagnosis. If you notice several of these signs of codependency and are dissatisfied with yourself or your relationships, it’s smart to seek health, notes Mental Health America.

  • Do you keep quiet to avoid arguments?
  • Are you always worried about others’ opinions of you?
  • Are the opinions of others more important than your own?
  • Do you have difficulty adjusting to changes at work or home?
  • Do you feel rejected when significant others spend time with friends?
  • Do you doubt your ability to be who you want to be?
  • Are you uncomfortable expressing your true feelings to others?
  • Have you ever felt inadequate?
  • Do you feel like a “bad person” when you make a mistake?
  • Do you have difficulty taking compliments or gifts?
  • Do you feel humiliation when your child or spouse makes a mistake?
  • Do you think people in your life would go downhill without your constant efforts?
  • Do you frequently wish someone could help you get things done?
  • Do you have difficulty talking to people in authority, such as the police or your boss?
  • Are you confused about who you are or where you are going with your life?
  • Do you have trouble saying “no” when asked for help?
  • Do you have trouble asking for help?
  • Do you have so many things going at once that you can’t do justice to any of them?

Relapse Prevention at Guardian IOP
There are a variety of reasons relapse can happen, including codependency. Our relapse prevention program offers both day and evening programs to fit your schedule, and provides individual and group counseling, 12 step immersion, family restructuring support, holistic therapies and relapse prevention education. To learn more, call today: 855-517-1871.

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Anna-Barrett

Reviewed for accuracy by:

Anna earned her Masters of Social Work at Barry University in Miami, FL in 2017 and completed her internship in co-occurring disorders. Anna has a Bachelors of Art in Religious Studies from Naropa University and is a certified yoga and meditation instructor. Anna has received specialized training in somatic counseling with an emphasis on body-centered psychotherapy.