You’ve heard the term “codependency”.  But what does it really mean
and how does it affect your life?  Codependency is a very complex and
difficult issue that affects many people in different ways. It is usually
characterized by individuals who have an excessive emotional or
psychological dependence on another person, often to the point of
sacrificing their own needs and wants to please or accommodate that
person.
If this sounds like you, don’t worry, you aren’t alone!  Codependency is
a common pattern of behavior that often develops in childhood as a
response to an emotionally distant parent or caregiver.  For example, a
parent or spouse/partner who struggles with addiction or another mental
health disorder that makes it difficult for them meet another’s emotional
needs.  As a way of compensating, some people develop unhealthy
habits to try and get those needs met.
People who are codependent often have difficulty setting boundaries
and may struggle with feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety. It can be a
difficult issue to overcome, but fortunately, counseling can be incredibly
helpful for people who are struggling with codependency.  Through
counseling, those unhealthy codependent habits can be replaced by
healthier, more effective ways of behaving.
When it comes to counseling for codependency, there are several
different approaches that can be helpful. For example, talk therapy can
be very effective for helping people to identify the underlying causes of
their codependency, while cognitive-behavioral therapy can help people
to develop healthier coping mechanisms and ways of thinking.
Here are 5 quick tips for recovering from codependency:

Be patient: Recovering from codependency is a process, and it’s
important to be patient with yourself. Don’t expect to overcome your
codependency overnight and celebrate small victories along the way.
With these tips, counseling, and support from resources like
Codependents Anonymous, people who are struggling with
codependency can begin to recover and live fuller, more fulfilling lives.
If you are ready to start detaching and healing from your codependent
ways, I’m here to support you.

Set boundaries: Learning to say “no” and setting boundaries is an
important part of recovering from codependency. It’s important to
recognize that you can’t control other people’s behavior, and that it’s
okay to prioritize your own needs and wants.

Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential when
recovering from codependency. This includes practicing mindfulness,
engaging in activities that you enjoy, and taking care of your physical
health.

Seek support: Joining a support group like Codependents Anonymous
can be incredibly helpful for people who are struggling with
codependency. Being around people who understand what you’re going
through can be very validating and empowering. To find a support group
near you, visit https://coda.org

Address underlying issues: Often, codependency is rooted in deeper
issues like childhood trauma or low self-esteem. Addressing these
underlying issues in therapy can be helpful for long-term recovery.