3 min readNew DelhiMar 16, 2025 08:34 PM IST
First published on: Mar 16, 2025 at 07:30 PM IST
Have you ever felt that you are just giving and giving while receiving nothing in return in a relationship? If you find yourself consistently putting aside your own thoughts, feelings, and time to cater to someone else’s needs, this imbalance could signal a codependent relationship.
A codependent relationship typically consists of a ‘taker’ and a ‘caregiver’.
-A taker is someone who often relies heavily on their partner for emotional support, decision-making, and validation. They may exhibit needy or demanding behavior and can be manipulative to ensure their needs are met.
-A caregiver is someone who typically sacrifices their own needs to take care of their partner. They may feel responsible for their partner’s happiness and well-being, often putting their partner’s needs above their own.
But how would you know that you are in a codependent relationship?
Mehezabin Dordi, clinical psychologist at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, tells us about some telltale signs of a codependent relationship:
-There is an imbalance in how support is given and received.
-It is hard to maintain personal independence and setting boundaries.
-One person exhausts themself in continually trying to fulfill the other person’s needs.
-There is a fear of abandonment or rejection if one’s needs are not met.
-There is an imbalance in decision making, where one person dominates while the other is left in a passive position.
A codependent relationship can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. (Source: Freepik)
How can a codependent relationship affect your mental health?
A codependent relationship can have the following effects on your mental health:
Low Self-Esteem: A person’s desperate need for approval from another can significantly impact their self worth.
Anxiety and Depression: A codependent relationship can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.
Burnout: The person who is always prioritizing their partner’s needs may experience emotional and physical exhaustion.
Loss of Identity: When a person loses sense of their own needs and desires , it results in a diminished sense of self.
Is the only solution ending the relationship, or are there ways to work through a codependent relationship?
Both are viable solutions in their own right. “Whether to end the relationship or work through it depends on the willingness of both partners to acknowledge the codependency and actively participate in making positive changes.” says Ms Dordi.
In some cases, ending the relationship may become absolutely necessary where both partners are unwilling to change their behavior and harmful patterns. On the other hand, addressing and working through the problems in a codependent relationship involves:
Therapy: Engaging in individual and couples therapy can help uncover and address codependent behaviors. Therapists offer strategies for creating healthier relationship patterns and enhancing communication.
Establishing Boundaries: It’s essential to learn and maintain personal boundaries. Both partners should focus on self-care and ensure their own needs are prioritized.
Fostering Independence: Encouraging each partner to engage in their own interests, friendships, and goals helps cultivate individuality and reduce reliance on each other.
Enhancing Communication: Transparent and sincere discussions about each partner’s needs, desires, and emotions can help restore balance in the relationship.
A codependent relationship could prove to be extremely toxic for both parties involved. (Source: Freepik) 
A codependent relationship can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. (Source: Freepik)
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