Importance Of Co-Dependency In A Relationship

When you fall in love your life is bound to become enmeshed with your partner's life. Unfortunately, when one of you starts abusing drugs the cycle of co-dependency and drug abuse also begins. You may think you're helping your partner by covering up their behavior and making excuses for them. The cold, hard truth though is that you're actually enabling them.

This type of co-dependency isn't only tragic for the user, but for their loved one as well. Understanding what it is, how it works, and how to fix it is a vital part of getting clean again.

Understanding Co-dependency and Drug Abuse

A co-dependent relationship has two participants:

The manipulator is the addict. They manipulate people to get their way. Knowing they influence their partner is something they'll use to their advantage.

The enabler is the addict's
At the same time, the enabler depends on the manipulator for the attention and self-esteem they need. This cycle continues until something drastic happens, putting an end to it.

Treating Co-dependency and Drug Abuse

Recovery from co-dependency and drug abuse requires one person in the relationship to admit there's a problem. It's possible that this is of their own accord. Typically, it's due to intervention though.

Once someone recognizes the problem they must seek help. The enabler needs therapy so they can work on the issues causing them to act the way they do. Obviously the manipulator needs drug rehab treatment. Both need co-dependency treatment so they can have a healthier relationship.

When you see this cycle of co-dependency and drug abuse occurring you need to seek help immediately. This cycle won't end until it's broken. Although this isn't easy, ultimately it's worth it for everyone who's involved. It enables both the manipulator and the enabler to regain control of their lives and have healthier relationships there as