More often than not, drug addictions start with an experimental use of a drug in social situations. And for some people, the drug use becomes more frequent. As time passes, a person may feel the need to use more of a drug to get their desired high, and soon a person may need the drug to simply feel “good.”
When we see this happen to someone love, we do everything we can to help. But sometimes, our unconditional love simply isn’t enough, and issues of codependency arise.
Signs and symptoms of codependency include:
- Shame and low self-esteem
- People-pleasing that feels like a requirement
- Poor boundaries/difficulty saying no
- Having difficulty communicating in a relationship
- Caretaking to help others avoid negative consequences
- Attempts to control the behavior of others in the name of “helping”
- Valuing the approval of others more than valuing yourself
If your relationship with your loved one comes to mind with any of the above symptoms and behaviors, it may be time to consider supportive therapy for yourself.
As a counselor supporting those affected by the disease of addiction, I address the symptoms of your loved one’s addiction and the related areas of impaired functioning, and how those affect you. Together, we will address where this behavior is rooted in you, and how you can learn to trust yourself again and allow others to be responsible for themselves.
I believe that there are many paths to successful recovery that will work with the goals and desires you have for your life, and ensure you can make the life changes you want to make. Contact me today for a consultation.