Recovery from Codependency

Because many feel that codependency has its roots in the same spot as alcoholism and drug abuse, they feel that the 12-step recovery plan from Alcholics Anonymous.

Alcoholics Anonymous actually coined the term codependency. It is their understanding that the alcoholics are not the only part of the problem, it is the people who enable them. It is the network of people that the Alcoholics have built up. The addict must either break free from the network, or those in the network must change in order to support the changes of the alcoholic. So they created support groups called Al-anon and Al-a-Teen. This is a great place to start.

Here are some other things:

1. Focus for a while on YOU. Things are not going to get better until you conquer this, even if it is a little at a time. Realize that you must accept people as they are. You cannot change them, they must do this for themselves. And it is not your responsibility to change them. What you are actually doing is keeping them just as they are.
2. Get some help from a therapist if possible.
3. Find a support group, or just support from friends.

Al-anon -- Find a Meeting http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/local-meetings

ORLANDO (407) 765-5513 Includes Literature Distribution Center services.

http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/al-anon-in-florida/76-ais-fl/53-orlando

DISTRICT 10 AIS OFFICE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
PO BOX 568854
ORLANDO
FL
32856-8854
USA

aisorlando@hotmail.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
(407) 765-5513
http://www.alanon-orlando.com


Online meeting http://www.ola-is.org/


seminole county
http://www.northfloridaal-anondistrict6.org/meetings.html

4. Build your self-esteem - self-love is a basic need. And, as in Maslow's Hierachy of Needs, self-actualization cannot be attained without it.
5. DEVELOP A DAILY SPIRITUAL SIDE. I know that this is hard for many to believe, but it has been proven time and again that people who PARTICIPATE in a church are more happy, successful, emotionally whole. If you have any inclinations at all, start going to church and meeting up with church people. It has often been said that codependents cannot be spiritual because they are at such unrest, untrust.
6. Learn about setting healthy boundaries. Assure that these boundaries are met, and enforce them.
7. Learn how to give "I feel" messages. Everyone has a right to their opinion and a right to be heard. The way you express those feelings can affect the way people listen. If you say "I feel" in front of them, you are not pointing fingers and putting others on the defensive.