Co-dependency is a behavioural condition that can lead to a loss of self and unhealthy relationships.
People with co-dependent tendencies may:
- Have low self-esteem: They may feel unworthy of love and go to great lengths to gain approval.
- Prioritise others’ needs: They may sacrifice their own needs to take care of others, such as a sick family member.
- Modify themselves: They may change their interests to feel accepted by others.
- Have difficulty setting boundaries: They may have a fear of abandonment and have trouble saying “no”.
- Be resentful: They may feel resentful when they say “yes” to things they don’t want to do.
Co-dependent behaviours can stem from unhealthy family dynamics, such as abuse, neglect, or addiction. People who are co-dependent may have learned that their needs aren’t important and that the only way to gain approval is to sacrifice themselves.
Recognising and addressing co-dependent behaviours can lead to healthier relationships. Some ways to heal from co-dependency include:
- Getting to know yourself: Start doing things that make you happy and honour yourself.
- Setting boundaries: Learn to be assertive and say “no” when you need to.
- Communicating: Learn how to handle verbal abuse and improve your communication.
Co-dependency Psychotherapy in Hertfordshire can help you to identify and erect healthy boundaries and become more assertive. Whilst recognising and respecting your own feelings without getting anxious or overwhelmed.
A primary trait of co-dependent personality is minimisation and denial when having to tolerate emotional and psychological abuse. It becomes habitual and sadly, the co-dependent individual’s authenticity dwindles away. When this happens, they become a shell of themselves and may be prone to bouts of low mood and anxiety. They may think that they are unable to form new friendships when their confidence has been eroded away over a long period of time.
Negative beliefs about themselves become entrenched because they have no autonomy. Co-dependency Psychotherapy in Hertfordshire can help co-dependent individuals find their true selves again. In a safe, non-judgemental space, they can gradually forge ahead with confidence and have no fear of being alone, abandonment, or rejection.
Another primary factor of co-dependent personality is taking care of others. The co-dependent person typically sacrifices his or her needs to take care of another person. When co-dependents place other people’s health, welfare and safety before their own, they can lose contact with their own needs, desires, and sense of self.
Boundary setting and learning how to be assertive by articulating your feelings is paramount to healing and recovering your true self. You deserve respect and for others to take care of you sometimes. It’s a basic, decent premise of life.
If you feel that you are co-dependent on others whilst seeking their approval or validation and you want to become confident within yourself. Please contact me now at: www.pennyglazebrookcounselling.co.uk
