Facing Codependence

When it comes to facing codependence, many victims have a long and tragic path ahead of them. However, the process isn't impossible. There are many ways you can get help. Here are a few tips to consider when freeing yourself from codependency.

When it comes to facing codependence, it's important to understand what exactly the phenomenon is. Essentially, there are two types of codependent people in any relationship. There is the passive codependent and the controlling codependent. The passive codependent is one who feels he or she must fix all of the other person's problems at the risk of personal dignity and health. The controlling codependent is one who feels as though he or she must continually control and manipulate the other person in the relationship because he or she feels as though the other person is incapable of making their own decisions.

With this in mind, it's easy to see why facing codependence is so difficult for so many. Many who are codependent have no idea that they are being manipulated or are behaving in a controlling manner. Passive codependence has roots in extreme feelings of anxiety, self loathing, and despair; he or she may feel as though they must do everything they possibly can to stay in the relationship, even if they're miserable, simply because being in a bad relationship is better than none at all. The controlling codependent may believe that he or she has the right to control their spouse's actions because they are entitled to.

However, facing codependence isn't impossible. Whether you're currently in a codependent relationship or you're recovering from one, there are a wide variety of facilities dedicated to helping you learn who you really are. Codependence often has its roots in ritual childhood abuse. Those who suffer from dysfunctional families often experience lingering feelings of abandonment issues, anxiety, and depression as adults. Others imprint on their parents' controlling behavior and seek to manipulate others. Either way, the results can be very harmful indeed.

With time, therapy, and patience, you can overcome your codependency. While facing codependence involves a lot of uncomfortable navel gazing, the outcome of it is more than worth the effort. In time you will learn that you are a good person, you don't need to solve other people's problems for their affection, and that you are perfectly capable of being independent and happy on your own. Learn more today.