Understanding Codependency in Addiction Recovery
Codependency is a common yet often overlooked dynamic in the world of addiction that causes a great many addicts to relapse! It occurs when a loved one becomes overly involved in the life and choices of someone struggling with substance use—often to the point of neglecting their own needs. While the intention may be to help or protect, these patterns can unintentionally enable the addiction by shielding the person from consequences, covering up their behaviour, or trying to “fix” things for them.
Guilt & Fear Drivers
This extreme ‘need’ to help is partially underpinned by guilt and fear. The parent or partner may feel guilty in that they have ‘let the addict down’ so feel the need to overcompensate with ‘helping’ behaviours. Combined with fear the codependent always fears the worst outcome, oblivious to the fact that they are already heavily contributing to what is already an out of control, dangerous situation!
Control & Compliant Behaviours
At its core, codependency is about blurred boundaries and misplaced responsibility hidden behind unpredictable controlling and compliant behaviours with a heavy dose of denial. In the context of addiction, it can fuel a cycle where the addicted individual continues to abuse drugs and alcohol, and the codependent person continues to rescue unaware of the addicts manipulation. That’s why true recovery involves more than just treating the person with the substance use disorder—it means supporting loved ones too who are often totally unaware of the destruction that plays out right beside their ‘helping’ behaviours. By addressing codependent patterns, both parties can begin to heal, create healthier boundaries, and foster lasting change.
Ignoring codependency as a realistic debilitating emotional and behavioural condition promotes ‘substitution’ based outcomes that block personal; development.
If you or someone you love is struggling with the effects of codependency and addiction, support is available.
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