What is co-dependency?
Co-dependency is a dysfunctional pattern of behaviour where an individual relies on and tries to control the thoughts, feelings, and behaviours of another persona. This often occurs at the expense of their own needs and well-being. Someone who is co-dependent has an extreme focus outside of themselves and their thoughts often revolve around other people such as a spouse, friend or relative.
How can Portobello Behavioural Health help?
Co-dependency often arises in relationships that are unbalanced or unhealthy, and often when someone is in a relationship with a person who has an addiction. Co-dependant individuals may struggle with low self-esteem and have difficulty setting and maintaining boundaries, both of which therapists can help with. Co-dependency often stems from a dysfunctional family system so therapists can work to address this. Through, therapy, coaching or group work individuals can be helped to set healthy boundaries, build their own self-esteem and learn to prioritise their own needs