Is Codependency A Mental Illness?

Codependency is complex. It is an issue that can affect relationship dynamics and overall mental well-being. When talking about substance abuse, romantic relationships, and family dynamics, it is a term that often comes up. Many have wondered whether it is a mental health condition. To answer this question, it is necessary to know what codependency is, how it impacts relationships, and, finally, we can answer whether or not it is a mental illness.

What is codependency?

Codependence refers to a pattern of unhealthy behavior in which one person is excessively reliant upon another for emotional or psychological support. A normal kind of interdependence is seen in healthy relationships, but codependency often goes beyond this. Sometimes, in a codependent relationship, a person might feel responsible for another’s emotions, actions, or well-being. This sort of relationship sets up a harmful dynamic where both individuals struggle to maintain healthy boundaries.

Codependent behavior is often seen in relationships where one may have a substance use disorder. It’s possible that it could be a significant life challenge that demands a substantial amount of attention from the other person. An individual may support the other and try to control the situation, feeling guilty or anxious if they cannot fix the other person’s problems. Codependent patterns and habits will inevitably lead to emotional exhaustion, stress, and loss of self-identity.

Is codependency a mental illness?

Codependency is not classified as a mental health condition in the DSM-5 (the manual mental health professionals use for diagnoses). However, it is widely recognized as a learned behavior that can affect a person’s mental well-being. Codependency is often linked to relationship addiction. This entails someone becoming “addicted” to caring for others in a way that is not healthy for either person involved.

What are the symptoms of codependency?

The common symptoms of codependency are:

• Difficulty setting boundaries
• Feeling overly responsible for others’ emotions or actions
• Always seeking approval or validation
• Neglecting one’s own needs in favor of others
• Fear of abandonment or rejection
• Feeling guilty for standing up for oneself
• Staying in an unhealthy relationship (either physically or emotionally abusive)

All of these symptoms impact romantic relationships, family connections, the workplace environment, and friendships.

How is codependency diagnosed?

Mental health professionals can help identify codependency patterns by evaluating relationship dynamics and discussing unhealthy behavior. Through the therapy treatments we offer at Fifth Avenue Psychiatry, you can understand how these patterns were developed if you fear you are codependent. Support groups and therapy sessions are usually recommended for individuals who show signs of codependency.

Can codependency be treated?

Codependency can be treated. It requires a commitment to change and working with a therapist or counselor who understands the root causes of the behavior. A therapist will act as a third-party observer of the relationship and will help guide you through developing healthier coping strategies and ways to avoid codependent patterns.

Common forms of treatment include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This helps individuals identify and change unhealthy behavior patterns.
  
• Support Groups: Many find solace in sharing their personal experiences and learning from others in a group setting. This helps people not feel as if they are alone or are the only ones who struggle with codependency issues.
  
• Boundary-Setting Exercises: Setting healthy boundaries is crucial to overcoming codependency. This could heal current relationships and set a healthy standard for future relationships someone might find themselves in.

Therapy is often a necessary step to overcome codependency by teaching how to focus on one’s own needs and self-worth rather than feeling responsible for others’ to an unhealthy degree.

What are the causes of codependency?

The cause of codependency is often rooted in childhood experiences. Many who struggle with codependency grew up in environments where relationship dynamics were broken and unhealthy. When a parent steps out of their role, children often feel like they might need to take care of a parent, perhaps because the parent has a substance use disorder. This leads the child to believe that the only worth they might have comes from helping others at the expense of their well-being.

Other possible causes include:

• Growing up in a household with substance issues
• Experiencing emotional neglect or abuse
• Learning patterns of unhealthy behavior from family members or close friends
• Low self-esteem, fear of rejection, or a tendency to people-please.

How does codependency affect relationships?

Codependency can drastically strain relationships by creating an imbalance. One person may feel responsible for the other’s happiness or success. This will inevitably lead to burnout and emotional exhaustion in every relationship. 

The following is a list of unhealthy relationship dynamics:

• Resentment
• Control
• Loss of self-identity

What is the difference between codependency and dependent personality disorder?

While codependency and Dependent Personality Disorder (PDP) may seem similar, they are drastically different conditions. Dependent Personality Disorder is a recognized mental health condition characterized by an excessive need to be taken care of. On the other hand, codependency usually involves taking care of someone else.

Key differences include:

• Codependent behavior focuses on controlling or fixing someone else’s problems. This person is selfless to their detriment. A person with DPD focuses on their own need for care, acting out of deep selfishness.
  
• DPD is a diagnosable mental disorder. Codependency is a learned behavior that is not officially classified as a mental illness.

Can codependency lead to other mental health issues?

Yes. Codependency can lead to the following mental health issues:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Low self-esteem
• Burnout
• Emotional exhaustion

Many who exhibit codependent patterns struggle with feelings of guilt or worthlessness, if not addressed, leading ultimately to long-term emotional damage.

What are some self-help strategies for managing codependency?

The following self-help strategies will help manage codependency patterns:

• Set healthy boundaries with loved ones.
  
• Focus on self-care and prioritize your own emotional needs.
  
• Join support groups to connect with others who are working through similar issues.
  
• Practice saying “no” without feeling guilty.
  
• Seek therapy to understand the root causes of your codependency.

Mental Health Treatment at Fifth Avenue Psychiatry

If you’re struggling with codependency or other relationship dynamics, seeking professional help can make all the difference. At Fifth Avenue Psychiatry, we specialize in helping individuals overcome codependent behavior and develop healthier, more fulfilling relationships. 

Reach out to us today to begin your recovery journey.

Inquire at (212) 734-0506