Relationship Addiction (co-dependency): Definition, Signs, Causes, Treatment

Relationship addiction refers to a behavioral condition characterized by excessive emotional reliance on another person for validation and identity. According to the American Psychiatric Association, an estimated 40 million Americans exhibit co-dependent behaviors, with the majority being women.

The main signs and symptoms of relationship addiction include emotional dependency, fear of abandonment, and approval-seeking behaviors. Wioletta Klimczak and Andrzej Kiejna’s study titled “Co-dependency in Women and Their Life Experiences,” published in Alcohol and Drug Addiction (2018), highlights these behaviors as key indicators of co-dependency, which lead to chronic stress and emotional instability​.

The causes of relationship addiction are unresolved trauma, dysfunctional family dynamics, and low self-esteem. A report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) states that individuals from families with substance abuse or trauma are 50% more likely to develop co-dependent tendencies.

The most effective treatment methods for relationship addiction are trauma-informed therapies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and group therapy. Research by Pierluigi Diotaiuti et al. titled “Internet Addiction in Young Adults: The Role of Impulsivity and Codependency,” published in Frontiers in Psychiatry (2022), emphasizes that combining these approaches helps individuals address underlying issues, establish boundaries, and prevent relapse​.

What Is Relationship Addiction (Co-dependency)?

Relationship addiction, clinically referred to as co-dependency, is an emotional and behavioral condition where individuals rely excessively on relationships to fulfill their need for identity, self-worth, and emotional stability. 

It involves one-sided dynamics in which the individual neglects their well-being to cater to another’s needs. Clinically, co-dependency is recognized as a maladaptive coping mechanism that emerges from unresolved psychological conflicts and dysfunctional emotional patterns. This condition frequently stems from early exposure to unhealthy family dynamics or traumatic experiences.

According to a study by Ayesha Abid and Ivan Suneel titled “Role of Socio-Demographic Factors in Codependency of Spouses of Substance Users,” published in the Journal of Professional & Applied Psychology (2023), approximately 18-25 million Americans exhibit co-dependent behaviors, especially in relationships with individuals affected by addiction. The study highlights that these patterns are rooted in childhood exposure to dysfunctional family systems, emotional neglect, or substance use​.

Can You Be Addicted to a Person?

Yes, you can be addicted to a person, a condition described as person addiction. This phenomenon involves obsessive emotional dependence, where individuals develop unhealthy behavioral patterns to maintain a relationship, even at the expense of their well-being. 

Common examples include compulsive monitoring of a partner’s actions, prioritizing their needs over personal responsibilities, and an overwhelming fear of abandonment.

In high-pressure careers, such as medicine or law enforcement, personal addiction is exacerbated by work-related stress and emotional exhaustion. These professionals channel their need for emotional validation into a single relationship, intensifying co-dependent behaviors. 

According to a study by Luz Adriana Aristizábal titled “Codependency in the Relations of Couples of Imprisoned Women,” published in Social Sciences (2020), individuals in demanding environments develop rigid dependency dynamics as a way to manage emotional voids, leading to relational patterns that reinforce emotional reliance​.

Is Codependency a Mental Illness?

No, co-dependency is not classified as a mental illness in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). While it exhibits traits like emotional dependency and dysfunctional behavioral patterns, it lacks the diagnostic criteria required for mental health disorders. 

However, debates persist among professionals regarding its impact on mental health, as co-dependency contributes to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. 

According to a study by Melanie Hands and Greg Dear titled “Co-dependency: A Critical Review,” published in Drug and Alcohol Review (1994), co-dependency is better understood as a relational and societal issue than a standalone clinical diagnosis​.

How Does Relationship Addiction Impact Mental and Physical Health?

Relationship addiction impacts mental and physical health by increasing anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion while causing stress-related conditions like headaches, fatigue, and weakened immunity. 

According to a study by Wioletta Klimczak and Andrzej Kiejna titled “Co-dependency in Women and Their Life Experiences,” published in Alcohol and Drug Addiction (2018), the chronic stress from co-dependent behaviors can severely disrupt emotional regulation and overall well-being​.

The ways relationship addiction impacts mental and physical health are explained below:

• Stress Disorders: Chronic stress from relationship addiction results in anxiety disorders, emotional burnout, and difficulty regulating emotions. According to a study by Wioletta Klimczak and Andrzej Kiejna titled “Co-dependency in Women and Their Life Experiences,” published in Alcohol and Drug Addiction (2018), individuals with co-dependent tendencies frequently suffer from persistent worry and panic attacks as a direct result of their heightened emotional dependency​.
• Immune Suppression: The prolonged emotional stress associated with relationship addiction weakens the immune system, increasing susceptibility to illnesses and infections. A study by Luz Adriana Aristizábal titled “Codependency in the Relations of Couples of Imprisoned Women,” published in Social Sciences (2020), found that co-dependent individuals experience physical health decline due to sustained activation of stress responses​.
• Cardiovascular Problems: Emotional strain and unresolved stress elevate blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Research by Melanie Hands and Greg Dear titled “Co-dependency: A Critical Review,” published in Drug and Alcohol Review (1994), links co-dependency to heightened physiological stress responses, which negatively impact heart health​.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Chronic anxiety and emotional distress caused by relationship addiction disrupt digestion, leading to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Studies indicate that these issues stem from the stress-related activation of the gut-brain axis​.
• Sleep Disruptions: Co-dependent individuals report difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, contributing to fatigue and diminished cognitive function. Sleep issues arise due to the mental preoccupation and hypervigilance inherent in these relationships, as reported by Abid and Suneel in their 2023 study on co-dependency in spouses of substance users, published in the Journal of Professional & Applied Psychology​.

How Does Relationship Addiction Differ from Healthy Relationships?

Relationship addiction differs from healthy relationships through its focus on emotional dependency rather than mutual support and respect. Healthy relationships emphasize emotional balance, where both individuals maintain autonomy while offering support to one another. 

In contrast, dependency-based relationships revolve around one-sided efforts to fulfill emotional needs, often leading to imbalance and neglect of personal well-being.

What Are the Signs of Relationship Addiction?

The signs of relationship addiction are emotional dependency, controlling behaviors, physical exhaustion, and psychological distress. Emotionally, individuals exhibit fear of abandonment and approval-seeking behavior, while behaviorally, they prioritize their partner’s needs at the expense of their own. Physically, chronic stress manifests as fatigue and headaches, while psychologically, affected individuals experience low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

The signs of relationship addiction are explained below:

Emotional and Behavioral Indicators

The emotional and behavioral indicators of relationship addiction include:

• Clinginess: Individuals with relationship addiction display clingy behaviors, such as excessive need for constant reassurance and frequent attempts to remain in close proximity to their partner. This stems from emotional insecurity and a lack of self-worth. According to a study by Luz Adriana Aristizábal titled “Codependency in the Relations of Couples of Imprisoned Women,” published in Social Sciences (2020), clinginess is a hallmark of co-dependency and often disrupts relationship balance​.
• Fear of Abandonment: A pervasive fear of being left alone or rejected drives many co-dependent behaviors. This fear leads to unhealthy sacrifices and an inability to set boundaries. Melanie Hands and Greg Dear, in their study “Co-dependency: A Critical Review,” published in Drug and Alcohol Review (1994), emphasize that this emotional fear is a foundational characteristic of co-dependency​.
• Emotional Volatility: Extreme emotional fluctuations, including intense reactions to minor issues, are common in co-dependents. These behaviors are fueled by deep emotional dependency and insecurity. 
• Approval-Seeking: Co-dependent individuals prioritize pleasing their partner above their own needs, seeking constant validation to feel valued and secure in the relationship.
• Controlling Behaviors: To prevent perceived abandonment, individuals exhibit controlling behaviors, including excessive monitoring or manipulation, to ensure their partner remains committed.

Physical Signs

The physical signs of relationship addiction include:

• Sleep Disturbances: Chronic stress and emotional preoccupation lead to difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, or insomnia. According to a study by Ayesha Abid and Ivan Suneel titled “Role of Socio-Demographic Factors in Codependency of Spouses of Substance Users,” published in the Journal of Professional & Applied Psychology (2023), sleep disturbances are a common stress-related symptom in co-dependent individuals​.
• Chronic Fatigue: The emotional toll of maintaining a dependent relationship results in persistent physical exhaustion and low energy levels, even with adequate rest. Melanie Hands and Greg Dear’s research in Drug and Alcohol Review (1994) highlights the physical manifestation of emotional strain as a key marker of co-dependency​.
• Headaches and Muscle Tension: Stress-related symptoms, such as tension headaches and muscle aches, are frequently reported due to prolonged anxiety and emotional strain. 
• Weakened Immunity: Prolonged emotional stress suppresses the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses and infections. This physical consequence underscores the systemic impact of stress on overall health.

Psychological Symptoms

The psychological symptoms of co-dependency include:

• Anxiety: Relationship addiction triggers chronic anxiety, characterized by excessive worry about the partner’s actions or feelings. According to a study by Luz Adriana Aristizábal titled “Codependency in the Relations of Couples of Imprisoned Women,” published in Social Sciences (2020), approximately 67% of individuals with co-dependency exhibit clinical symptoms of anxiety stemming from emotional dependency​.
• Depression: Persistent emotional strain and unmet needs in co-dependent relationships lead to feelings of hopelessness and clinical depression. Melanie Hands and Greg Dear, in their study “Co-dependency: A Critical Review,” published in Drug and Alcohol Review (1994), found that individuals in co-dependent relationships are significantly more likely to experience depressive episodes due to emotional neglect​.
• Difficulty Concentrating: The constant mental preoccupation with the relationship hampers focus and cognitive function, impairing daily activities and decision-making. Research by Ayesha Abid and Ivan Suneel titled “Role of Socio-Demographic Factors in Codependency of Spouses of Substance Users,” published in the Journal of Professional & Applied Psychology (2023), highlights that individuals with dependency tendencies frequently report concentration difficulties linked to heightened stress levels​.
• Low Self-Esteem: Co-dependents typically struggle with poor self-image, relying on external validation from their partner to feel worthy, which exacerbates feelings of inadequacy.

What Causes Relationship Addiction?

The causes of relationship addiction include unresolved psychological factors, social influences, and environmental stressors. Psychological factors such as low self-esteem, fear of abandonment, and emotional trauma lay the groundwork for dependency patterns. Social and environmental influences, including dysfunctional family dynamics and exposure to unhealthy relationship models, further reinforce these behaviors. 

According to a study by Azeem Ali et al. titled “The Relationship Between Family Dynamics, Social Support, and Substance Abuse on the Development of Codependency in Young Adults,” published in the Social Science Review Archives (2025), complex family environments and lack of social support are significant contributors to co-dependency​.

Psychological Factors

The psychological factors causing relationship addiction include:

• Low Self-Esteem: Individuals with low self-esteem rely on external validation to feel valued, making them more prone to co-dependency. They prioritize the needs of others over their own, leading to unhealthy dependency. According to a study by Wioletta Klimczak and Andrzej Kiejna titled “Co-dependency in Women and Their Life Experiences,” published in Alcohol and Drug Addiction (2018), unresolved feelings of inadequacy are a core psychological contributor to relationship addiction​.
• Unsolved Trauma: Childhood trauma, including emotional neglect or abuse, creates deep-seated insecurities and attachment issues that later manifest as dependency in relationships. A study by Azeem Ali et al. titled “The Relationship Between Family Dynamics, Social Support, and Substance Abuse on the Development of Codependency in Young Adults,” published in the Social Science Review Archives (2025), found that individuals exposed to childhood adversity were significantly more likely to develop co-dependent behaviors as adults​.
• Fear of Abandonment: A pervasive fear of being left alone drives individuals to cling to unhealthy relationships, even when they are harmful. This fear stems from early experiences of abandonment or unstable attachments, which create an intense need for reassurance and connection.
• Difficulty with Emotional Regulation: Co-dependent individuals struggle to process emotions effectively, leading to heightened anxiety and overreactions in relationships. These difficulties reinforce dependency patterns as they seek emotional stability through their partner.
• Perfectionism and Over-responsibility: Some co-dependent individuals believe they must “fix” or take care of their partner, stemming from a compulsive need to feel in control or responsible. This dynamic perpetuates unhealthy relational patterns and emotional exhaustion.

Social and Environmental Influences

Societal pressures, family dynamics, and cultural expectations significantly contribute to the development of relationship addiction. In many cases, individuals from dysfunctional families internalize unhealthy relational patterns, such as emotional neglect or enmeshment, which predispose them to dependency behaviors in adulthood. 

Cultural expectations that emphasize self-sacrifice, loyalty, or traditional gender roles reinforce co-dependency by normalizing emotional dependency and approval-seeking behavior. 

According to a study by Melanie Hands and Greg Dear titled “Co-dependency: A Critical Review,” published in Drug and Alcohol Review (1994), these external factors not only perpetuate unhealthy relational dynamics but also make it harder for individuals to recognize and break free from their co-dependent behaviors​.

How Is Relationship Addiction Diagnosed?

Diagnosing relationship addiction requires both self-reflection and professional assessment. Self-assessment tools, such as the Codependency Assessment Questionnaire (CAQ), help individuals identify patterns of emotional dependency and unhealthy relationship behaviors. 

Clinical evaluation by mental health professionals involves in-depth interviews and standardized diagnostic frameworks to uncover underlying psychological and behavioral factors contributing to co-dependency. 

For example, the Codependency Inventory, as discussed in a study by Pierluigi Diotaiuti et al. titled “Internet Addiction in Young Adults: The Role of Impulsivity and Codependency,” published in Frontiers in Psychiatry (2022), has been used to assess dependency-related traits and their impact on mental health​.

Are There Any Self-Assessment Tools for Relationship Addiction?

Yes, there are self-assessment tools for relationship addiction, such as the Codependency Assessment Questionnaire (CAQ) and the Codependency Inventory. These tools help individuals identify patterns of emotional dependency, fear of abandonment, and approval-seeking behaviors in their relationships.

Self-assessment tools for relationship addiction are explained below:

• Co-Dependency Assessment Tool (CODAT): A validated questionnaire that evaluates emotional dependency, approval-seeking, and fear of abandonment. It is widely used in clinical and research settings to measure the severity of co-dependency traits.
• Friel Co-Dependency Assessment Inventory: Developed by psychotherapists John and Linda Friel, this tool helps individuals identify behavioral patterns, such as clinginess and controlling tendencies, linked to relationship addiction. It is accessible through licensed mental health professionals or therapy resources.
• Codependency Assessment Quiz: An online resource that provides a quick evaluation of potential co-dependent behaviors. It is commonly available on mental health platforms, such as Psychology Today, offering immediate feedback and guidance.
• The Codependency Workbook: This workbook, by therapist Melody Beattie, includes self-assessment exercises designed to help individuals reflect on their relational behaviors and emotional triggers. It serves as a practical resource for personal growth.
• Online Resources and Quizzes: Websites like Mental Health America and PsychCentral offer free quizzes and resources to help individuals gauge their level of relationship dependency and learn about treatment options.

What Role Does Professional Evaluation Play in Diagnosing Co-dependency?

The roles professional evaluation plays in diagnosing co-dependency are identifying underlying emotional patterns and determining the severity of dependency behaviors. 

Clinical evaluation by a mental health professional involves comprehensive interviews, standardized diagnostic tools, and an understanding of the individual’s relational history to uncover psychological and behavioral contributors to co-dependency. 

This process is essential for accurate intervention, as it helps differentiate co-dependency from other mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. 

According to a study by Wioletta Klimczak and Andrzej Kiejna titled “Co-dependency in Women and Their Life Experiences,” published in Alcohol and Drug Addiction (2018), clinical evaluations are critical in designing tailored therapeutic strategies that address both the emotional and behavioral aspects of co-dependency​.

What Are Treatment Options for Relationship Addiction?

Treatment options for relationship addiction include the following:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

3. Trauma-informed Therapies

4. Group Therapy and Support Groups

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps reshape thought patterns and behaviors associated with relationship addiction. By addressing cognitive distortions such as fear of abandonment, low self-esteem, and approval-seeking behaviors, CBT helps individuals develop healthier emotional responses and relational dynamics. 

According to a study by Pierluigi Diotaiuti et al. titled “Internet Addiction in Young Adults: The Role of Impulsivity and Codependency,” published in Frontiers in Psychiatry (2022), CBT has shown effectiveness in reducing dependency-related behaviors by fostering emotional regulation and improving decision-making skills​. 

Through structured sessions, clients learn to identify triggers, reframe unhealthy beliefs, and set personal boundaries, which are critical for breaking co-dependent cycles.

2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) focuses on enhancing emotional regulation and developing effective coping strategies for individuals struggling with relationship addiction. By teaching mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, DBT helps co-dependent individuals manage intense emotions and break cycles of unhealthy relational patterns. 

According to a study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry (2022) by Pierluigi Diotaiuti et al., DBT has demonstrated a success rate of over 70% in reducing emotional dependency and improving relationship dynamics in individuals undergoing therapy​. This approach is particularly effective for those with heightened emotional sensitivity and difficulty maintaining personal boundaries.

3. Trauma-informed Therapies

Trauma-informed therapies address the root causes of co-dependency through emotional healing, focusing on past traumas that contribute to dependency behaviors. These therapies create a safe and supportive environment where individuals process unresolved emotional wounds, such as childhood neglect or abuse, which are linked to the development of co-dependent patterns. 

According to a study by Wioletta Klimczak and Andrzej Kiejna titled “Co-dependency in Women and Their Life Experiences,” published in Alcohol and Drug Addiction (2018), trauma-focused approaches have shown significant effectiveness in reducing emotional dependency by targeting the underlying psychological distress​. 

Techniques like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic Experiencing are commonly used to help clients release trauma stored in the body and mind, fostering long-term emotional stability.

4. Group Therapy and Support Groups

Group therapy and support groups play a necessary role in shared healing and fostering accountability among individuals with relationship addiction. These settings provide a safe space for participants to share experiences, learn from others, and build healthy interpersonal skills.

Examples include Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) and other community-led support groups that emphasize emotional growth and boundary-setting. According to a study by Melanie Hands and Greg Dear titled “Co-dependency: A Critical Review,” published in Drug and Alcohol Review (1994), group therapy has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing dependency behaviors, with participants showing improved emotional regulation and decreased approval-seeking tendencies​. 

These groups help individuals break the isolation associated with co-dependency and encourage long-term recovery through mutual support.

Are There Support Groups or Community Resources for Co-dependency in Las Vegas?

Yes, Las Vegas offers various support groups and community resources for individuals dealing with co-dependency. These resources help individuals connect, share, and manage their dependency. 

The support groups or community resources for co-dependency in Las Vegas include:

• Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA): Regular meetings are held across Las Vegas, providing a structured environment for individuals to share experiences and work through the 12-step program specifically designed for co-dependency recovery.
• Therapist-Led Support Groups: Many licensed therapists and mental health clinics in Las Vegas, such as the Center for Behavioral Health, offer group therapy sessions tailored to address relationship addiction and emotional dependency.
• The CARE Coalition: This community program focuses on mental health and substance abuse support, addressing co-dependency issues as part of its broader recovery initiatives.
• Online Support Networks: Platforms like Mental Health America of Nevada provide virtual resources and referrals for co-dependency support, connecting individuals with both local and national programs.

How Does Relationship Addiction Affect Professionals and High-Stress Careers?

Relationship addiction affects professionals and high-stress careers by amplifying emotional exhaustion, fostering unhealthy dependency patterns, and impairing decision-making under pressure. 

Professions like pilots, doctors, and first responders, which demand emotional resilience and intense focus, are particularly vulnerable due to their high-pressure environments. These individuals prioritize work obligations, leaving little time to nurture personal relationships, leading to co-dependent behaviors as a way to seek emotional balance. 

According to a study by Wioletta Klimczak and Andrzej Kiejna titled “Co-dependency in Women and Their Life Experiences,” published in Alcohol and Drug Addiction (2018), individuals in high-pressure roles exhibit co-dependent traits, such as approval-seeking and emotional overinvestment, which exacerbate stress and relational instability​. 

Barriers to seeking help include stigma around mental health, fear of professional repercussions, and limited access to support tailored to their unique challenges.

How Can High-pressure Environments Contribute to Relationship Addiction?

High-pressure environments contribute to relationship addiction by fostering chronic stress, emotional burnout, and social isolation. Stress from demanding roles, such as those in healthcare or emergency response, leads individuals to seek emotional validation and stability from relationships, intensifying dependency patterns. 

Burnout weakens emotional resilience, making it harder to set boundaries or recognize unhealthy dynamics. Additionally, the isolation common in high-stakes careers limits support networks, further driving individuals toward unhealthy relational reliance. 

According to a study by Melanie Hands and Greg Dear titled “Co-dependency: A Critical Review,” published in Drug and Alcohol Review (1994), these factors collectively heighten the risk of co-dependent behaviors in high-stress professional settings​.

Why Are Professionals More Likely to Delay Seeking Help for Co-dependency?

Professionals are more likely to delay seeking help for co-dependency because of stigma, fear of career repercussions, and lack of awareness. According to the American Psychiatric Association, more than one-third of workers are concerned about job consequences if they seek mental health care.

Reasons professionals are more likely to delay seeking help for co-dependency are explained below:

• Stigma: Workplace cultures perpetuate negative perceptions of mental health issues, leading professionals to fear judgment from colleagues and supervisors. This stigma creates an environment where seeking help is viewed as a sign of weakness, deterring individuals from addressing their co-dependency.
• Fear of Career Repercussions: Concerns about potential impacts on job security, professional reputation, and opportunities for advancement discourage professionals from pursuing mental health support. The apprehension that disclosing co-dependency could lead to discrimination or diminished responsibilities further delays help-seeking behaviors.
• Lack of Awareness: Many professionals do not recognize the signs of co-dependency or understand that their behaviors are detrimental, leading to a lack of self-identification and subsequent inaction. Without adequate knowledge of co-dependency and its effects, individuals are less likely to seek the necessary assistance.

What Are the Long-term Strategies for Preventing Relapse?

The long-term strategies for preventing relapse are maintaining consistent therapy, building a strong support network, and practicing self-awareness and boundary-setting. These approaches help individuals sustain emotional balance, recognize early signs of dependency, reinforce healthy relationship patterns, and prevent relapse.

The long-term strategies for preventing relapse are explained below:

• Mindfulness Practices: Incorporating mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and breathing exercises, helps individuals stay present and manage emotional triggers, reducing the likelihood of relapse.
• Setting Healthy Boundaries: Establishing and maintaining clear boundaries in personal and professional relationships prevents emotional entanglement and dependency and fosters balanced connections.
• Ongoing Therapy: Regular sessions with a therapist provide continued support and guidance, helping individuals identify and address potential relapse triggers.
• Support Networks: Building a strong network of friends, family, or support groups like Co-Dependents Anonymous ensures accountability and a sense of community.
• Journaling and Self-Reflection: Regular self-reflection through journaling enables individuals to track progress, recognize patterns, and reinforce positive behavioral changes.
• Engaging in Healthy Hobbies: Pursuing activities that promote personal growth and fulfillment diverts attention from dependency-related behaviors and encourages self-reliance.

What Strategies Help Professionals and Veterans Maintain Healthy Relationships?

The strategies to help professionals and veterans maintain healthy relationships include specialized therapy, emotional resilience training, and structured communication practices. 

Trauma-focused therapy for veterans helps address unresolved issues from service-related experiences, while stress management programs tailored for professionals mitigate the effects of high-pressure work environments. These approaches reduce emotional dependency by enhancing coping mechanisms and fostering self-awareness. 

According to a study by Wioletta Klimczak and Andrzej Kiejna titled “Co-dependency in Women and Their Life Experiences,” published in Alcohol and Drug Addiction (2018), therapy and emotional resilience training significantly improves relational outcomes by equipping individuals with the tools to establish boundaries and build healthier connections​. 

Structured communication practices, such as active listening and conflict resolution, further strengthen relational bonds by promoting mutual understanding and respect.

Can Addictive Relationships Ever Transition into Healthy Partnerships?

Yes, with the right interventions, addictive relationships can transform into healthy, supportive partnerships. This transition is possible through therapy-led transformations and mutual commitment. 

Therapy, such as trauma-informed approaches or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), helps partners recognize and reshape unhealthy patterns, fostering healthier dynamics. Mutual commitment to establishing boundaries and practicing open communication is key to sustaining these changes. 

According to a study by Azeem Ali et al. titled “The Relationship Between Family Dynamics, Social Support, and Substance Abuse on the Development of Codependency in Young Adults,” published in the Social Science Review Archives (2025), targeted therapeutic interventions within relationships significantly reduce dependency behaviors and promote long-term relational stability​.

Can Co-dependency Develop Without a Romantic Relationship?

Yes, co-dependency can develop without a romantic relationship, manifesting in family relationships, workplace dynamics, or friendships. 

In non-romantic co-dependency, individuals excessively prioritize others’ needs, such as a parent enabling a child’s unhealthy behaviors, a colleague over-relying on a team member, or a friend neglecting personal boundaries to maintain closeness. 

These dynamics reflect the same emotional dependency and lack of healthy boundaries found in romantic co-dependency.

How Does Relationship Addiction Differ From Love Addiction and Sex Addiction?

Relationship addiction differs from love and sex addiction in its focus on emotional reliance rather than physical or romantic fixation. While all three involve unhealthy patterns, relationship addiction centers on emotional dependency, whereas love addiction is characterized by obsessive romantic infatuation, and sex addiction focuses on compulsive sexual behaviors. 

Below is a comparison table showing how relationship addiction differs from love addiction and sex addiction:

Aspect	Relationship Addiction	Love Addiction	Sex Addiction
Definition	Dependency on emotional validation and approval from others.	Obsession with being in love or romantic infatuation.	Compulsive engagement in sexual activities despite negative consequences.
Primary Focus	Emotional reliance and fear of abandonment.	Idealized romantic attachment.	Physical gratification through sexual acts.
Key Behaviors	Approval-seeking, emotional clinginess, boundary issues.	Obsessive pursuit of love, serial relationships.	Compulsive sexual thoughts, excessive pornography use.
Impact on Relationships	Creates imbalance, emotional exhaustion, and neglect of self.	Unrealistic expectations, unstable romantic bonds.	Erodes trust and intimacy in relationships.
Underlying Causes	Unresolved trauma, dysfunctional family dynamics.	Insecurity, fear of being alone, romanticized views of love.	Emotional regulation issues, trauma, or attachment disorders.
Mental Health Links	Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem.	Depression, obsessional thinking, anxiety.	Impulse control disorders, emotional dysregulation.
Treatment Approaches	Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), group therapy, trauma-informed care.	Psychodynamic therapy, CBT, self-help groups.	Specialized sexual addiction programs, CBT, and mindfulness.

Can Relationship Addiction Exacerbate Depression or Anxiety Disorders?

Yes, relationship addiction exacerbates existing mental health challenges like depression and anxiety. The emotional dependency and chronic stress associated with co-dependency amplify feelings of inadequacy, fear of abandonment, and low self-esteem, creating a cycle that worsens mental health conditions. 

According to a study by Wioletta Klimczak and Andrzej Kiejna titled “Co-dependency in Women and Their Life Experiences,” published in Alcohol and Drug Addiction (2018), individuals with co-dependency often experience heightened levels of anxiety and depression as a direct result of their dependency patterns and relational conflicts.​

Can Co-dependency Enable Other Addictions, like Alcohol or Drugs, in a Partner?

Yes, co-dependency can perpetuate other addictions by fostering enabling behaviors in relationships. Individuals prioritize their partner’s needs over their own, excusing or facilitating substance abuse to maintain relational stability. 

Examples of enabling behaviors include covering up for a partner’s drug abuse, providing financial support that funds their substance use, or minimizing the consequences of their actions. According to a study by Wioletta Klimczak and Andrzej Kiejna titled “Co-dependency in Women and Their Life Experiences,” published in Alcohol and Drug Addiction (2018), partners exhibiting co-dependent tendencies increased the likelihood of substance abuse in their partners by 35%, as their enabling dynamics prevented accountability and reinforced the addictive behavior​.