How to Identify and Take Steps to Fix a Codependent Relationship

How to Identify and Take Steps to Fix a Codependent Relationship

How to Identify , and Take Steps to Fix , a Codependent Relationship.

Lifehacker offered advice for identifying a codependent relationship and tips for what to do about it.

Tammy Nelson, a therapist and author, says a codependent relationship can be a reflection of low self-esteem and a negative self-image.

Symptoms of codependency include the need to fix other people, the inability to set clear boundaries, the perpetual sacrificing of one’s own needs for your partners, and feeling resentful that your desires are never taken into account, Tammy Nelson, sex and relationship therapist and author, via Lifehacker .

Symptoms of codependency include the need to fix other people, the inability to set clear boundaries, the perpetual sacrificing of one’s own needs for your partners, and feeling resentful that your desires are never taken into account, Tammy Nelson, sex and relationship therapist and author, via Lifehacker .

Caring for your partner isn't always unhealthy, but self-sacrifice with little in return may be a sign that you're in a codependent relationship.

Another clear sign of a codependent relationship is if either partner's sense of worth comes solely from the other person.

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To heal from codependency in a relationship, it is important to cultivate healthy selfishness.

Being able to care for yourself first means having the capacity for self-care in order to be present for yourself, your partner, and your family, Tammy Nelson, sex and relationship therapist and author, via Lifehacker .

According to Nelson, this can include everything from eating well and exercising to spending time with friends or finding new hobbies.

According to Nelson, this can include everything from eating well and exercising to spending time with friends or finding new hobbies.

This kind of self-love allows you to love others more fully and more realistically, Tammy Nelson, sex and relationship therapist and author, via Lifehacker .

Lifehacker points out that therapy may be a way for both parties to learn new coping skills.

Couples therapy could also help to develop and maintain healthy boundaries in your relationship