codependency definition

What is Codependency?

February is codependency month. But what is Codependency? 

Codependency is term that is thrown around a lot. It is defined as “excessive emotional or psychological reliance on a partner, often a partner who requires support due to an illness or addiction.” But it doesn’t require an illness or addiction. Sometimes both partners are very high functioning, both may even be over functioning in the case of relationships where one partner is fairly controlling, type-a, narcissistic or a workaholic. So how does it show up? How can you know if you engage in co dependent relationship patterns? Here's a (non-exhaustive, but decent) list of symptoms:

  • You have been called controlling or nagging

  • You help without having been asked        

  • You have a hard time setting boundaries, saying no, expressing (or sometimes even just knowing) your needs and emotions                

  • You feel resentment and loss of joy                    

  • You feel compelled to put others needs before your own                        

  • You struggle with accepting help or compliments                        

  • You feel like your worth or emotions are dependant on the state of your relationships

  • You tend to be in relationships that put you in role of fixer, helper, junior therapist, caretaker, parent

If you relate to any of these, were here to help. Call or email today!