Helpful Information
What is codependency?
Codependency is a learned behavior that is appropriately
described as relationship addiction. The core symptoms
can be as simple a set of behaviors that arise from
caring for a loved one that is an active addict or an
alcoholic. The loved one can be a spouse, partner, child,
parent, friend, sibling, or even a co-worker. The relationship
a codependent individual has with an addict or alcoholic
is characterized by certain unhealthy behaviors.
These behaviors include trying to help the individual,
with good intentions, but this help actually prolongs
the problems by allowing a person to remain in their
active addiction. For example, a partner may purchase
and provide drugs or alcohol at home so that their significant
other does not drink and drive, or a coworker may continually
cover up for a friend that is consistently hung-over
or drunk on the job.
In both cases, the addict does not learn the consequences
of their unhealthy behaviors and their destructive path;
rather, they learn to depend on someone else to keep
them out of trouble. As the alcoholic relies more and
more on the helping friend, the friend tries harder
and harder to help. The end result is two lives twisted
together; one person is compulsively abusing substances,
and the other is compulsively helping.
How can a person tell
the difference between an unhealthy, codependent relationship
and a healthy relationship?
Loving, caring, and needing are part of a healthy,
intimate relationship. But when these emotions become
unbalanced or compulsive, codependency develops. In
family dynamics, if one person develops unhealthy behaviors,
all others in close proximity will feel the effects.
Frustrated family members often ignore the problems
about which they feel helpless and instead focus on
“helping” the addict in the only way they
see how. Also, in many cases a codependent individual
experienced a childhood with a family member who was
alcoholic, addicted, or abusive.
I think I am becoming
codependent or am codependent. What can I do?
Like most addictions, codependency is best treated
not with pills or medications, but with learning, counseling,
and the shared strength of others. We have experienced
notable long-term success through our residential treatment
program followed by a 12-step based recovery model.
We can help you; call us today for a free professional
evaluation and consultation.
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