Interdependence vs Codependency — How To Develop A Healthy Relationship

Humans are relational beings wherein we have an innate need for social connection and affection. Social connections decrease stress, increase happiness, and can lead to giving us a sense of purpose. In essence, having healthy and satisfying relationships can contribute to leading longer and healthier lives.   An interdependent relationship refers to the deep emotional bond with another that allows security and protection. When we are creating these interdependent relationships, we are also honoring our need to grow and develop as independent human beings. It is when two people can fully be themselves while still being involved with each other. They each have the ability to engage in the relationship with clear and open communication, without the fear of the other person getting angry.   Meanwhile, codependency is when each person is relying on the other person for that sense of happiness and completeness. They need the other person to meet all of their emotional needs and expect their partners to take responsibility for their feelings. Codependency often leads to destructive behavior and is present in toxic relationships as there are no clear boundaries between the individuals, unhealthy communication patterns, and controlling behaviors. When we are codependent, it stagnates our ability to grow and develop which eventually leads to anxiety, depression, and withdrawal.   How do you move from being codependent into a more interdependent relationship? By promoting our independence with the ability to know who we are. We need to get into a solid foundation of knowing who we are and be a self leader of our wants and needs. Being able to hold on to that part of ourselves allows us to be able to overlap with the other person and support them and vice versa.   Continue Your Growth Journey: Kaminiwood.com