It’s true that love is unselfish, and we always look for ways to make our loved ones feel comfortable around us.

Whether it’s your best friend, partner, parents, or siblings, you always want to make sure they know they’re loved.

But when we start putting their needs before ours, at the expense of our mental wellbeing, the relationship can quickly turn toward codependency.

On the bright side, research shows that codependency is a learned behavior. This means that there are certain steps you can take to overcome your codependent behaviors, express your feelings, and transform your relationships into healthy ones.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at the steps you can take:

1. Take A Break

One of the problems codependent people struggle with is the fear of abandonment. They believe that their loved ones will leave them or abandon them. They often feel they’re not “good enough” to be loved.

This fear is the driving force behind why they go out of their way to please their loved ones.

While there’s nothing wrong with doing things for the people you care about, it shouldn’t come at the cost of your own wellbeing.

When things become overwhelming, it’s a good idea to take a break. Delete social media apps from your phone and log out of all your accounts for some time.

Go on a short trip. It doesn’t have to be to another country. You can take a road trip. Go on a weekend getaway. Do the things you’ve always wanted to do and create a bucket list of things you want to try.

2. Write Down Your Negative Thoughts

Identifying negative thoughts and patterns is one way to overcome codependency. Research shows that writing down thoughts can also help combat stress.

Low self-esteem is often one of the reasons why we stick around when it comes to unhealthy relationships.

Every time you feel like you’re “not good enough” or don’t “deserve to be loved” write it down in your journal. Then try to figure out why you feel the way you do. Once you do, write down the reasons too.

Then write down at least five things you like about yourself. It will be difficult at first but we promise it’ll get better with time.

(Bonus Read: How to Develop Healthy Boundaries in A Codependent Relationship)

3. Try Hypnosis

Hypnosis is known to be an effective treatment when it comes to codependency. The best thing about the technique is that it can be used in tandem with behavioral therapy, as well as an independent treatment.

It can help you connect with the root of the problem by helping you gain access to your subconscious mind. There are often deep-rooted and hidden fears that immobilize us, and don’t allow us to recover.

Hypnosis can help identify these fears so you can work toward recovery.

We’re located in Pittsford, NY and our expert hypnotist, Rekha Shrivastava offers effective hypnosis treatment to address a number of concerns, like learning how to express your feelings and treat subconscious anxiety. Feel free to pay us a visit or get in touch with us for more details.

Rekha also offers Skype sessions for clients that don’t reside in Rochester, NY.