Codependency
Codependency describes a relationship pattern in which a person chronically suppresses their own needs in order to care for the problems of another person (often with addiction or mental health issues).
1. Recognizing the Savior Complex
The desire to help turns into a compulsion. Self-worth is primarily derived from being needed by the other person.
2. Perceiving Your Own Needs
Shift the focus back to yourself. What do you need? What is good for you? Codependents have often forgotten how to feel their own emotions at all.
3. Setting Healthy Boundaries
Saying 'no' to a request is not a betrayal. Learn to draw boundaries to protect your own emotional and physical health.
4. Relinquishing Responsibility
You are not responsible for the decisions and feelings of others. Let the other person bear the consequences of their own actions.
5. Accepting Help
The path out of codependency is difficult. Don't hesitate to seek therapeutic support or help in support groups (e.g., CoDA).