At the heart of many addiction recovery journeys lies the complex interplay between codependency and addiction itself. Recognizing this critical relationship, Woodland Recovery Center offers tailored addiction therapy services designed better to understand codependency and its role in addiction recovery. Our team of experts collaborates with individuals to create personalized plans addressing codependency and addiction, offering a broader path to lasting recovery. To learn more about our addiction therapy services and to start your recovery journey, call us today at 662.222.2989.
What Is Codependency in Addiction?
There are some different definitions, but the most common one for codependency is a harmful, one-sided relationship where one person is supplying all the physical and emotional needs of the other. It can also involve one person enabling the other to continue with their troubling behavior, such as addiction and maybe even avoidance of daily life.
One of the reasons codependency is hard to talk about is it can be hard to understand as a negative relationship model and also hard to tell when certain natural feelings have become hurtful. It requires both people involved to recognize a concern that needs to change. This means it can be hard to spot codependency and also challenging to admit it’s going on. Especially in cases involving family members, friends, or romantic partners who are connected to individuals struggling with addiction, this situation can occur. Codependency and addiction can create a vicious cycle, with codependent behavior enabling addiction to continue and addiction fueling the codependent relationship.
Are There Ways to Recognize Codependency?
Even though codependency is not necessarily an easy thing to recognize, there are still signs and symptoms to identify.
Struggling with Low Self-Esteem
Like many aspects of our personalities, there’s a healthy balance of humility and confidence. Low self-esteem can indicate a faulty self-image, and thinking you are not good enough or not worth being happy is a sign that something needs to change.
Going Out of Your Way to Always Please Others
Of course, wanting to please others, especially a romantic partner, is not abnormal. That’s just a natural aspect of the typical human mind. Feeling as if you can’t say no or working to please everyone at the expense of your health, comfort, or safety may mean you’re going too far with pleasing others.
Inadequately Delineating the Boundaries Between Yourself and Others
We all have internal and external lives, and we all, to some extent, share both of these with others. There’s a healthy balance, and when one aspect outweighs another, it can become an issue. Thinking you’re responsible for someone else’s emotions, or they’re for yours, shows unclear emotional boundaries. On the flip side, sharing nothing and being closed off can lead to codependency, using the other person to express your feelings. It’s like saying, “I’m happy,” pointing at someone else smiling.
Neglecting Your Own Needs in Favor of Others
Neglecting your own needs can be related to the idea of always trying to please others. This is sometimes called “caretaking” and happens when someone only focuses on someone else’s well-being at the expense of their own needs. This can also be when someone feels their entire existence and value are tied up in whether they can help someone, and it can even lead to feeling rejected if advice or help isn’t taken. When it comes to codependency related to substance use, this may be when someone continually goes out of their way to help with a hangover or the day after heavy substance use but never addresses the reason or reasons for the outcome.
Not Admitting There’s a Concern
You’ve most likely heard it called denial, which is a big hurdle in recovery. Admitting a concern can carry some uncomfortable thoughts, mainly that you have failed or are failing. It’s tough to get past that sometimes. Recognizing an issue that exists is the opposite of failing. It means you are one step closer to solving the problem, which is a big success. Another reason this can cause issues is because it enables the other half of a codependent relationship to continue struggling with substance use, also known as enabling.
Most of these can appear in multiple ways and sometimes range from minor to severe. Consulting a professional is a great first step if you may be experiencing codependency and addiction in your relationships. At Woodland Recovery Center, we understand the delicate balance of navigating codependency and addiction, and our team is here to support you on your path to recovery. Contact us today at 662.222.2989 to learn more about our specialized therapy services.
How to Get Help with Codependency and Addiction Recovery?
If you or someone you love is struggling with helping a loved one with their addiction or recognizing codependent behavior in your relationships, it’s essential to seek help from a professional. Professional help can provide relief with the following:
- Clearly identifying codependent behaviors and patterns in relationships
- Learning healthy boundaries and communication skills
- Understanding how to support a loved one without enabling their addiction
- Addressing underlying issues contributing to codependency and addiction
Woodland Recovery Center offers personalized therapy services to address codependency and its role in addiction recovery. Our compassionate team is dedicated to helping individuals and families heal from codependency and addiction, creating a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Contact Woodland Recovery Center for Support and Assistance with Addiction
Woodland Recovery Center is committed to guiding individuals and families toward a brighter, healthier future free from addiction and the challenges of codependency. Understanding the complexities of these issues and taking the first step toward healing is a brave and significant move. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you or someone you love needs support and assistance with addiction recovery. Contact us online or call us today at 662.222.2989 to learn more about our comprehensive addiction therapy services and how we can assist you in creating a new chapter in your life.
