Do I have Codependent tendencies?

Posted: September 7, 2022

Codependency is somewhat of a controversial term that describes an unhealthy or unbalanced relationship where one person’s needs are met while the others aren’t. Regardless of the term being controversial, codependent behavior is described as “enabling” unhealthy or destructive behavior of a loved one by supporting them, no matter if it negatively affects their own well-being.

As an example, a parent may have a hard time setting healthy boundaries by telling their grown addict son or daughter their behavior is unwelcomed and they must move out. This is a bit of a lose/lose scenario because enabling this bad behavior stalls recovery and only perpetuates the problem. In addition, the parent puts themselves in harm’s way, mentally, emotionally, and perhaps even physically.

Where Do Codependent behaviors Come From?

Codependent behavior often stems from an individual’s low self-esteem, excessive need to please, and an inability to set and maintain boundaries. Individual who demonstrate codependent behaviors tend to feel responsible for others’ problems and will take them on, despite the personal toll it may cost them.

Codependent behavior is usually developed in childhood. If you grew up in an environment where your emotions were either ignored or punished, you most likely developed low self-esteem, believing your needs didn’t matter.

Many people with codependent tendencies had caregivers who, for some reason, were unable to attend their needs. In this situation, the child is forced to take on responsibilities beyond their years, taking care of younger siblings and even their own parent(s). This type of childhood experience can result in addiction, depression, narcissism, other difficulties, and of course codependent behavior.

When we’re young, codependent behaviors are a survival mechanism. But as we become adults, these same behaviors prevent us from experiencing healthy relationships.

Signs of Codependency behaviors:

The belief you must “save” or “rescue” others
Low self-esteem
A one-sided relationship where one person is responsible and the other is allowed to be chronically irresponsible.
Going without so that others can have what they need or want.
Walking on eggshells around others and keeping opinions to yourself so as not to upset the other person.
Martyrdom – taking care of everyone else and resentful when no one cares for you.
A need to control
A need to please
An inability to set boundaries
Staying in relationships that are harmful or abusive
A feeling of guilt when taking care of yourself

If you can relate to one or more of these signs, there is a good chance you may have a tendency to engage in codependent behavior.

This first step in working through codependent behaviors is by committing to your own personal development and well-being. You can work with a therapist who specializes in codependency, you can have a profound growth that can lead to peace, fulfillment, and true connections with yourself and others.

If you’d like to explore treatment options, please reach out to me.

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