How to Help a Codependent
Codependency is probably more prevalent in our society than one can imagine. It's a quiet disorder that many people live with, believing they are just unhappy or unlucky or unworthy. If there is a codependent in your life, there are some things you can do to help. Read on to learn how to help a codependent.
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Instructions
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Recognize the problem. In order to help a codependent, you need to recognize the condition. It's easy to recognize the condition if you're not part of it. Codependents take care of everyone except themselves. They don't accept help or compliments, and often don't like to be alone. Their self-esteem is low and contingent on other people's opinions.
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Offer information. Once you recognize a codependent, the best place to start is by offering information about codependency. You may be able to work this information into the conversation by sharing personal experiences. Otherwise, try to facilitate a connection with someone who has experienced codependency or a support group.
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Step back. The worst thing you can do for a codependent is take over his recovery. A codependent gets through life by leaning on others so that he doesn't have to stand on his own. While he's working on his recovery, a codependent needs space. Step back and allow, or even require, a codependent to rely on himself.
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Be supportive. Codependency takes years to develop and many times even longer to recognize. Understand that a codependent may struggle for a long time to overcome this condition. Like an addict, a codependent may try several times to turn her life around before making any real progressive. Be helpful by supporting each attempt to combat the condition and being non-judgmental about each relapse.
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