Busting the myth that your problem is my problem.
In this week’s episode we talk more about codependency, why it happens, how you end up replacing your own agenda of self-care with the other person’s neediness, and how it is absolutely essential for your own sanity to address it.
In this episode, we learn that:
- There is a big difference between giving of yourself and giving yourself away. Between helping and codependency.
- Myth 1 : Addiction is only the addict’s problem. Reality: Addiction is a family illness.
- Myth 2: Life will be grand if only the addict would stop using or if the alcoholic would stop drinking. Reality: It took years for the family to become ill, and it will take time and effort to heal.
- Codependency is the accepted clinical term for the effect that addiction or alcoholism has on family members. Codependents, in putting so much energy into trying to control the addict, stop taking care of themselves.
- There is help for family members affected by the disease so that they can put the focus back on their well-being, including Al Anon, ADOA (adult children of alcoholics), many books, individual counselling and other support groups.