Codependency and substance abuse are two issues that are often linked together. But what exactly is the connection between these two issues, and how can both problems be addressed simultaneously? Learning more about the correlation can help individuals identify problematic behaviours and work towards successful treatment outcomes.
What Is Codependency?
Codependency can create a tangled web of damaging behaviours, often causing significant emotional strain. The issue is characterised by an individual’s excessive emotional, psychological, and behavioural investment in another person. Fixations are usually to the point where one partner neglects their own needs and wants. From establishing unhealthy attachments in relationships to lacking the ability to set proper boundaries or enabling addiction in others, codependency is a longstanding issue that needs greater awareness and understanding.
The codependent behaviour can stem from a powerful need to control another person, assurance-seeking behaviour, or fear of abandonment. Root causes are typically traced back to childhood. Something as traumatic as growing up in an unhealthy home environment might play a part, alongside feelings of low self-worth and the inability to set healthy boundaries.
How Does Codependence Manifest?
Codependency can have a powerful grip on an individual’s life and take away the autonomy needed to thrive or even function. The behaviour looks different in each person but can include trouble maintaining boundaries, a need for external validation, or an inability to ask for help. Individuals may also have difficulty recognising and expressing their emotions. They also might be overly critical of themselves and others. Finally, codependents often struggle with guilt, shame, and inadequacy, which can lead them to damaging substances in pursuit of relief.
What Is Addiction?
Addiction is a complex chronic disease that can take many forms and have serious, life-altering consequences. From alcohol dependency to gambling addiction or food compulsion, addiction characteristics revolve around an intense craving for the object of dependence and uncontrolled use despite adverse outcomes. Unfortunately, those struggling often experience physical, emotional and psychological hardship. These challenges affect not just their own lives but can cause distress in loved ones around them. Fortunately, addiction is treatable when appropriately addressed.
What Is the Link Between Codependency and Substance Abuse?
Codependency and substance abuse often have a reinforcing relationship. Unhealthy behaviour patterns can cause an individual to use substances to avoid uncomfortable emotions, and being around those with addiction increases one’s risk of drug or alcohol use. This powerful cycle is vital to understand how to address the underlying issues.
Getting Caught in the Cycle
One link between codependency and substance abuse lies in the codependent’s enabling behaviour and their attraction to individuals struggling with addiction. Codependents may enable their loved ones by making excuses for their behaviour, covering up for them, and taking on their responsibilities. These actions can lead to a cycle of codependency and addiction with both parties caught in a destructive pattern.
Additionally, codependents may believe they can help or save the individual struggling. This false belief can create another unhealthy dynamic. The codependent, once again, enables their partner’s addictive behaviours while neglecting their own needs. Over time, this cause-and-effect situation can become increasingly difficult to escape. The lack of improvement may lead the codependent to use drugs or alcohol to manage feelings of helplessness and insecurity. Then, both parties become dependent on substances to cope.
Commonalities Between Codependency and Addiction
Several common characteristics overlap between the two issues. Examples include difficulty setting boundaries for oneself, low self-esteem, and an inability to express emotions assertively. Trauma, such as childhood abuse or neglect, can serve as another connection between codependency and addiction. Individuals who have experienced a traumatic situation may use substances or compulsive behaviours to cope with the emotional pain.
Breaking the Cycle: How Are Codependency and Substance Abuse Treated?
Treating both codependency and addiction together requires a comprehensive approach. The treatment should address both issues, regardless of how they manifest in the relationship. Working with a qualified therapist can provide individuals with the insight and support necessary for identifying unhealthy relationship patterns, setting boundaries, challenging self-defeating thoughts, and developing coping skills that don’t involve substance use. Talking therapies can also be effective as they help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours.
Overcoming Addiction and Codependency With PCP
The staff at the Perry Clayman Project (PCP) understand how important it is for individuals to seek treatment for comorbid codependency and addiction. Our counsellors treat codependency and addiction with a holistic approach that includes evidence-based therapies. In this recovery process, individuals can acquire healthy coping skills, enabling them to better navigate life’s challenges without resorting to substance abuse or dysfunctional relationships. Coping skills can include problem-solving techniques and stress management to prevent obstacles from appearing down the line.
For those with severe cases, inpatient rehabilitation can be an invaluable tool. PCP offers primary, secondary, and third-stage options for those needing assistance. Loved ones can also receive support through family therapy sessions and educational seminars. These resources can help people better understand the recovery process and how they can help facilitate positive change.
From Codependence to Independence
In conclusion, codependency and addiction are interconnected issues that can profoundly impact individuals and their relationships. Understanding the link between codependency and addiction and seeking appropriate treatment can help individuals break the cycle and achieve lasting recovery. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength. Recovery is possible with the proper support and resources. Individuals can work towards healthy relationships and improved personal well-being by addressing codependency and addiction.
Individuals can work towards healthy relationships and improved personal well-being by addressing comorbid codependency and addiction. Dual diagnosis treatment that addresses each issue is often necessary for lasting recovery. PCP exists to help individuals address both issues. We help you acquire healthy coping skills to navigate life’s challenges without substance abuse or dysfunctional relationships. We are here to provide the necessary support and resources to break the cycle and achieve lasting recovery. If you or someone you know struggles with these problems, consider exploring available treatment options. Take the first step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Call PCP at 08000 380 480 to learn more about how we can help.
