<p>A codependent person tends to rely heavily on others for their sense of self and well-being. There is an enmeshed sense of responsibility to another person to meet their needs and/or for their partner to meet all of their needs to feel okay about who they are.</p>

Codependency

<p><span>Being dependent on another person can be unhealthy. Independence, taken to an extreme, can actually get in the way of us being able to connect emotionally with others in a meaningful way. </span></p><p>Interdependence suggests that partners recognize and value the importance of the emotional bond they share <b>while maintaining a solid sense of self</b> within the relationship dynamic. </p>

Interdependence

<div><p><span>Interdependence involves a balance of self and others within the relationship, recognizing that both partners are working to be present and meet each other's physical and emotional needs in appropriate and meaningful ways.</span></p></div>
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Why Interdependence Is Healthy

<ul><li>Healthy boundaries</li><li>Active listening</li><li>Time for personal interests</li><li>Clear communication</li><li>Taking personal responsibility for behaviors</li><li>Creating safety for each other to be vulnerable</li><li>Engaging and responding to each other</li><li>Healthy self-esteem</li><li>Being open and approachable with each other</li></ul><p>When partners feel cherished and valued, the relationship becomes a safe haven and a place where the couple can be interdependent.</p>

The Interdependent Relationship

<ul><li>Poor/no boundaries</li><li>People-pleasing behaviors</li><li>Reactivity</li><li>Unhealthy, ineffective communication</li><li>Manipulation</li><li>Difficulty with emotional intimacy</li><li>Controlling behaviors</li><li>Blaming each other</li><li>Low self-esteem of one or both partners</li><li>No personal interests or goals outside the relationship</li></ul>

Traits of a codependent relationship


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<ul><li>Know what you like and what matters to you</li><li>Don't be afraid to ask for what you want</li><li>Spend time with friends and family</li><li>Continue pursuing your personal goals</li><li>Be mindful of your values</li><li>Make time for hobbies and interests</li><li>Don't be afraid to say "no"</li><li>Don't keep yourself small or hidden to please others</li></ul>
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<p>Allowing your partner room and opportunity to do these same things will be the key to establishing a healthy, interdependent relationship.</p></div>

Build an Interdependent Relationship

Most of us value connection with others, especially in our romantic relationships. In fact, we are wired for connection and it allows us to create bonds and intimacy with our partner. The success of long-term relationships depends heavily on the quality of our emotional connection with each other.

Interdependence

Similar ideas to Interdependence

Why Interdependence Is Healthy

A healthy balance

Parasocial behavior