Signs of a codependent relationship

Excessive Need for Approval: One or both individuals depend heavily on the other for validation and self-worth.

Imbalance of Power: One partner often assumes a caretaker role, while the other becomes overly dependent.

Difficulty Setting Boundaries: Struggles to say “no” or establish healthy limits, leading to overcommitment or resentment.

Over-functioning in the Relationship: Taking on more than one’s fair share of responsibilities to feel needed.

Fear of Abandonment: A deep-seated fear of being left or rejected, often driving unhealthy behaviors to keep the relationship intact.

Prioritizing the Other’s Needs: Consistently putting the partner’s needs above one’s own, to the detriment of personal well-being.

Low Self-esteem: Feeling unworthy or only valuable in the context of the relationship.

Difficulty Making Decisions: Reluctance to make independent choices without consulting or relying on the partner.

Control Issues: Trying to control the other’s behavior, emotions, or life to maintain the relationship or ensure the partner's well-being.

Enabling Behavior: Supporting or tolerating unhealthy habits, such as substance abuse, out of a desire to “help” or avoid conflict.

Fear of Conflict: Avoiding disagreements or suppressing emotions to keep the peace, often leading to unresolved resentment.

Emotional Exhaustion: Feeling drained due to the emotional demands of the relationship, often without reciprocation.

Guilt or Anxiety When Prioritizing Self: Feeling guilty for engaging in self-care or setting personal goals.

Rescuing or Fixing Others: A compulsive need to solve the other person’s problems or shield them from consequences.

Lack of Personal Identity: Losing sight of personal interests, values, or goals outside the relationship.

Constant Need to Keep the Peace: Becoming overly accommodating to avoid upsetting the partner.

Emotional Dependence: Feeling unable to cope or function without the other person’s presence or approval.

Overly Reactive to Partner’s Feelings: Allowing the partner’s emotions to dictate personal mood and behavior.

Unequal Reciprocity: One-sided effort in maintaining the relationship, with little acknowledgment or effort from the other.

Staying in Dysfunctional Relationships: Persisting in toxic or harmful dynamics due to fear of being alone.