Codependency refers to a pattern of imbalance in a relationship, where one person sacrifices their needs and feelings to fulfill the needs of others/ It’s the person’s need to maintain a relationship, albeit an unhealthy one, that may lead to loss of self. (Jack, 1991; O’Brien & Gaborit, 1992). Codependency is a relationship in which one person needs the other person, who in turn, needs to be needed.
Codependency can be seen in any kind of relationship like mother-daughter, husband-wife, between friends, etc.
As humans we do need support and care from our loved ones, every relationship works when people do things for each other. Being dependent on one another is healthy to the point we are not losing our own identity completely. Codependency can make you feel that you are not enough or don’t have a purpose till you do not sacrifice your needs and emotions for another person.
Some of the signs of Codependency
feeling guilty or anxious if doing things for yourself
need for approval from others to feel good about yourself
fear of rejection or abandonment
spending maximum time helping others at the expense of your work
have difficulty setting healthy boundaries
Situations that may lead to codependency
criticised or bullied from friends, parents, siblings, etc.
caregiver showing love sometimes but being unavailable on the other hand
if you are living with someone who is ill and taking care of them for a long time
These circumstances can make an individual feel that their needs and emotions are not important, or they can be taken care of later and learn to keep others needs over theirs.
To deal with codependency visit a therapist for proper help and guidance.
Importance of Professional Counseling: A friend or family member may listen to you, but they aren’t professionally, technically qualified or experienced to offer you professional advice. If you wish you can contact us at MindTribe to receive help from our team of expert psychologists.
About MindTribe.in.
MindTribe Founder Dr. Prerna Kohli, India’s eminent psychologist, established the company to leverage the strength of the online to make counseling affordable and accessible to everyone. MindTribe provides counseling, workshops, support groups, forums, and eLearning.
About the Author.
kanika Bhatt is a psychologist at MindTribe.in. You can learn more about her by clicking here
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MindTribe.in, the Founders, or management team.
Acknowledgement: All images used are open source and from Unsplash.