The link between codependency and addiction is sometimes difficult to understand. However, the material below will provide an accurate definition of a codependent relationship. It will also talk about how codependency and addiction relate to one another.
What is Codependency?
Specifically, a codependent relationship is a dysfunctional relationship in which a person enables another individual to continue engaging in destructive behaviors. In the case of addiction, a person may not even realize their behavior is allowing or encouraging the misuse of addictive substances. Many codependents of those who abuse drugs or alcohol had a difficult past. For example, they may have been victims of abuse or neglect.
Linking Codependency and Addiction
A codependent relationship consists of a person who abuses addictive substances and a person who enables this behavior to continue. In many cases, the enabler has come from a background of abuse, neglect, or parental drug abuse. Therefore, he or she gains a sense of self-worth by remaining in the relationship with the individual who is suffering from addiction. In a sense, the two people feed off each other’s weaknesses. Unfortunately, this cycle is likely to continue until a serious negative outcome occurs or the two people recognize the need to seek help.
Signs of a Codependent Relationship
Recognizing an unhealthy relationship is an important part of getting professional help. For example, the list below covers some common signs of a codependent relationship:
Thriving on a Need to Fix Others
Many enablers experience a strong desire to fix the problems of those around them. While this comes from a place of compassion and concern, they fail to realize they are not always capable of providing solutions for serious issues like addiction.
Difficulties Creating Loving Relationships
Those suffering from substance abuse often have a history of unhealthy relationships. Moreover, those who enable drug-addicted individuals also tend to have a history of abusive or unhealthy relationships. When the two people come together, it can be a recipe for disaster.
Overpowering Need to Please Others
Enablers often experience an overpowering need to please other people. Furthermore, this can lead to engaging in actions that support the other person’s abuse of drugs or alcohol.
Being a Perfectionist
Enablers also tend to be perfectionists. They may feel extreme guilt and depression if they have not done enough for another person. Unfortunately, the desire to be perfect is often met with extreme frustration.
Finding appropriate addiction treatment should not be a source of frustration. Crest View Recovery Center is a rehab center in Asheville, NC. In fact, the innovative treatment programs available at Crest View can provide immediate and ongoing relief from the effects of addiction. For example, these include:
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Addiction recovery
- Holistic approach to treatment
You don’t have to remain trapped in the cycle of addiction. You can learn to overcome addiction by getting help from a quality rehab center that cares about your success. Therefore, call 866-327-2505 to discover how Crest View Recovery Center can help you gain access to a brighter future.
