Codependency

How we treat Codependency?

Our codependency treatment programmes take a holistic approach, focusing on your unique needs without following a specific treatment model. Our main goal is to help you reconnect with yourself so you no longer feel the need to rely on others for your sense of worth or well-being.

What is codependency?

When we suffer from codependency, we struggle to find self-worth outside of pleasing other people even when they mistreat us. Rather than being an addiction, codependency is classed as a nuanced behavioural condition. Codependency can often be found at the root of many self-destructive addictions and, in particular, is the first step towards developing a love addiction.

Codependent relationships tend to be very one-sided and can become acrimonious. Codependency can also make people more attracted to individuals ‘in need’ who are suffering from mental health or addiction issues. For example, a codependent person might enter a relationship with a narcissist because they will be attracted to someone who requires all of their attention and energy. Codependent people can also be drawn to the highly vulnerable nature of individuals suffering from addiction, who may become dependent on the excessive help of the codependent person. Together, codependency and addiction reinforce each other, delaying recovery for both parties.

Codependent attachment is either acquired or taught to us as children. If we grew up with one parent who was highly codependent on the other, we may have learned that this is how to show others love. We can also become codependent through experiencing childhood trauma. Trauma can lead us to internalise the belief that the world is unsafe and we must work to control it.

At HARP Private Rehab, we can help you rebuild your sense of self and establish healthier, more balanced relationships.

What are the signs?

Low self-esteem, fear of abandonment and confusing compassion for love are common characteristics of a codependent personality. Other symptoms of codependency include:

• Difficulty setting boundaries.
• People-pleasing behaviour.
• Difficulty expressing emotions.
• Enabling behaviour.
• Co-dependent relationships.
• Difficulty making decisions.
• Caretaking behaviour.
• Fear of being alone.

If you think you may have a problem but are unsure, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you cover up your partner’s substance abuse from others?
• Do you feel selfish when you look after your own needs before someone else’s?
• Do you find it hard to recognise your own needs?
• If your partner is in a bad mood, do you feel unable to focus on anything else until they feel better?
• Are you afraid of being alone?

If you answered yes to any of the above, you may be codependent. We can help guide you toward recovery.