Codependency generally results in the individual working so hard to care for the addicted loved one that the codependent individual's needs are neglected, which can also result in poor health, low self-esteem, depression, and other mental and physical consequences.
Anyone who grew up in an alcoholic home knows what the word "codependency" means! Now is the time to start focusing on caring for yourself instead of for someone else.
Marriage and Family Therapist, Marriage and Family Therapist MFT
You might call Codependency an addiction to "taking care of others at my own expense," or "an addiction to being in relationship with an abuser." A definite Behavioral addiction! My modality of choice is Image Transformation Therapy and the Feeling State model. I find this model creates actual behavioral and motivational change, not just curbing my "take care of" behavior and gutting it out. I back this up with EMDR and the Feeling State Addiction Protocol.
I often work with clients who have, or have had, challenges with co-dependency with both substances and relationships with others. Together, we will explore the roots of co-dependency challenges and engage in EMDR and/or IFS as indicated to best support these issues.