Codependence

Codependence is when two people rely too much on each other for emotional support that they cannot function independently.

Think about it like playing a game with a friend. If you always let your friend win or do everything for them, they might start to rely on you too much and won't be able to learn how to play the game on their own.

In relationships, when one person does everything for the other and sacrifices their own needs and wants, it might feel like love or care, but it can create an unhealthy and unbalanced relationship. Sometimes, this behavior is passed down from family generations, where parents may be overly controlling or dependent on each other or their children.

Codependence can lead to anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression in both partners. It can also make it difficult for one or both individuals to make decisions, assert themselves, or have healthy boundaries.

Learning how to be independent and build healthy boundaries is essential to a healthy and balanced relationship. It means taking care of oneself first, setting boundaries when necessary, and supporting each other in a healthy manner, instead of relying on each other for emotional security.