15 Signs You are Hitting Bottom in Codependency
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The concept of hitting bottom in codependency is discussed in this content. Hitting bottom refers to reaching a point where it becomes more uncomfortable to stay the same than it is to change. People often choose to stay in codependent relationships because they provide a sense of control and meet certain needs, even if they are objectively unhealthy. Change is difficult and requires effort and discomfort. People tend to change when the pain of staying the same outweighs the pain of change. Hitting bottom occurs when a person realizes that change is the only way to alleviate their pain. In codependency, individuals may look at their lives and realize that important aspects are suffering due to the relationship. It is crucial to recognize that codependent behaviors often stem from a history of abandonment trauma, leading to complex post-traumatic stress. The symptoms of codependency and CPTSD often overlap, so it is important to address the underlying trauma rather than solely focusing on the relationship or addictive behavior. When someone hits bottom in codependency, they may engage in "stinking thinking," which involves all-or-nothing thinking, personalization, and feeling sick and tired of being sick and tired. They may also experience cognitive difficulties, such as difficulty concentrating and a sense of being overwhelmed. Environmentally, hitting bottom in codependency can lead to the loss of relationships, financial problems, job loss, and declining health. The person may realize that they can't bring the dysfunctional other person back from their issues and may even be pushed away by them. Relationally, hitting bottom in codependency can result in low self-esteem, feeling empty and worthless, and a loss of identity. Letting go of codependent behaviors is terrifying because it means letting go of control and the fear of bad things happening. However, reframing letting go can help by focusing on what you gain control of, such as vulnerability and using your energy to move towards important things. Letting go means accepting that you couldn't change or fix the person or the relationship, which can be terrifying but also helps you realize that it wasn't your fault. It involves grieving the loss of the fantasy and the person you hoped they would become. However, it also brings an increased awareness and appreciation of the present moment. Recovering from codependency involves grieving the loss of the relationship with the dysfunctional person and the hope for a relationship with an imaginary version of them. It may also involve grieving the repeated loss of the original dysfunctional person, which often stems from a traumatic relationship with a caregiver. Additionally, there is a need to grieve all the things that have been lost along the way due to these dysfunctional relationships. Overall, hitting bottom in codependency is a significant turning point where individuals recognize the need for change and go through a grieving process as they let go of dysfunctional patterns and work towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.
The concept of hitting bottom in codependency is discussed in this content. Hitting bottom refers to