Doctors initially used the term codependency to describe an individual in a relationship with a substance use disorder victim. However, the term now incorporates a wide range of dependent behaviors, including physical, social, and emotional. According to statistics, tens of millions of women in America have the condition. If you are experiencing symptoms of this disorder, including anxiety and depression, seek professional assistance from a rehab facility like the Atlanta Detox Center by calling 470.450.2355.
Codependency Prevalence
While it is a challenge to capture prevalence, studies show the disorder is higher in some populations than others. For example, it is common in those who have experienced substance abuse and trauma. These could be individuals with self-defeating thoughts or struggling with anxiety.
If you or your loved ones fit this criterion, it would be best to seek help from a rehab facility. Doing so will allow you to access evidence-based treatment for codependency in GA. In rehab, therapists can create a customized treatment plan by combining several services, including:
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Group therapy program
- Individual therapy program
- Residential addiction treatment
Men Vs. Women Codependents
Some people may think that this disorder is more common in women than men, but this is a gender stereotype and is not accurate. The difference in gender codependents usually arises from substance abuse, which is more common in men than women. However, several studies reveal that personality is more related to this disorder than gender.
Adult Codependents
Codependency can impact several generations as it transfers from one person to another. Most adults may experience it due to the effects of growing in challenging situations, like stressful families or environments where people abuse drugs and alcohol, leading to mental health issues.
The most common symptoms in such situations include obsessive thinking, communication problems, trying to please others, and low self-esteem. Adult codependents may experience the challenge of maintaining a healthy family relationship.
Children Codependents
If you are a codependent parent, your children have a higher risk of developing the same problem. Kids whose parents are codependents or abuse alcohol and drugs at home may experience uncomfortable feelings, like anxiety, when relating to their parents.
Unstable parenting, childhood trauma, and a stressful environment during the early years of development can cause a person to become codependent.
Co-Occurring Disorders and Codependents
Codependency can lead to symptoms similar to those of a mental health disorder. Watch out for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression.
Studies reveal that there is a close relationship between depressive disorders and codependents. The most common symptoms are low self-worth and self-esteem. Codependent individuals may also have a narcissistic personality and borderline personality disorder.
Substance Abuse and Codependents
Originally, codependent individuals were people caring for drug and alcoholism victims, but today it describes a wide range of relationships. Those caring for an individual with a substance use disorder may suffer in various ways. They may minimize their desires, struggle with excess responsibilities, develop low self-esteem, and feel shame. In such a relationship, substance abuse can promote imbalance and dysfunction, making connection challenging. If you are struggling, seek help from a substance abuse treatment center.
Treatment for Codependents and Prognosis
Codependents can cause an imbalance in a healthy relationship, leading to harmful well-being for those involved. There are some critical points to note when seeking treatment at a medical detox center for this disorder, such as:
- Learn the right way to set boundaries
- Find fulfillment as a person, not by depending on others
- Seek support for those close to you
- Distance yourself from codependent relationships
- Practice self-care and recognize your self-worth
Manage Codependency at Atlanta Detox Center
Codependent habits are deep-rooted, so treatment requires professional support. Rehabs understand the dangers of codependency, so they are willing to help you overcome the destructive behavior. Contact Atlanta Detox Center at 470.450.2355 to get started on rehab treatment.
