Chapter 9-Codependency part 2

This chapter will include a checklist of 18 items, all of which are symptoms of codependency, think of a relationship of yours that could be unhealthy and cross check it with the list. If you check more than 3, it may be unhealthy. 1. Low self esteem. 2. Family dysfunction. 3. Depression and/or anxiety. 4. High levels of stress. 5. Hard time saying no. 6. Resentment. 7. Need to be in control. 8. Hiding your thoughts and feelings. 9. Desire to be liked by everyone. 10. Problems with intimacy. 11. Often confusing love with pity. 12. Overwhelming fear of abandonment. 13. Often taken advantage of or often taken for granted by loved ones. 14. Feeling underappreciated or 'used' by others. 15. Difficulty making decisions. 16. Difficulty identifying your own feelings or needs. 17. Valuing the approval of others more than valuing yourself. 18. Lacking trust in yourself. Now I have an activity for you to do. I want you to take some time to think about yourself, your likes, dislikes, needs, desires, thoughts, and feelings, then reflect on and write down what you need and want from a relationship. For instance, I wrote, "I need respect, equality, peace, care, comfort, support, and validation from the people I give those to." According to mindbodygreen.com here are 8 steps to overcoming codependency in relationships, "1. Contextualize your codependent tendencies. 2. Practice small acts of "smart selfishness." 3. Get to know your own true needs. 4. Practice clear, direct communication. 5. Stay on your side of the fence. 6. Nurture your own unconditional self-love. 7. Let go of your stories. 8. Release attachment to the outcome." The next chapter is about why I went to the behavioral health hospital.Thank you for reading My Journey Through Mental Health, Going Through it Together. Please remember to collect and comment on or review this book.