Caregivers and Codependency Home Care Aide in Eldersburg, MD

People often have symbiotic relationships that are damaging, yet they continue to stay while also blaming codependency to justify their decision.

Codependency is often characterized by a harmful symbiotic relationship that damages both parties, but both parties remain in the situation because they feel as if they “need to.

This is usually caused by the overvaluation of another’s needs instead of one’s own. Visiting Angels Eldersburg Home Care Aides treats your loved one how they should be treated. They will provide the home care services your loved one requires as well as teaching you how to provide the right care along the way.

When identifying a situation that may be codependent, is important to identify intent.

But how do we know what to look for to determine if a codependent relationship has developed? Co-Dependents Anonymous, Inc. gives a definition that lays out some potential patterns of behavior: “Codependency is a tendency to behave in ways that negatively impact one’s relationship and quality of life. This behavior may be characterized by denial, low self-esteem, compliance or control patterns.

When dealing with home care adies, it is critical to make sure that codependency does not develop, as this can have increasingly negative effects. Let’s take a look at some behavior patterns that could serve as warning signs.

Denial Patterns

People who are in denial usually cannot accept their own feelings or shortcomings. They view themselves as holier than thou and warp their own realities. It is not uncommon for them to purposely misinterpret their own emotions.

Low Self-Esteem Patterns

Low self-esteem can lead to codependency because people who have little self-esteem don’t value themselves very highly. They instead look at others as superiors and place their needs ahead of their own. They also have a hard time making decisions and taking compliments.

Compliance Patterns

Similar to low self-esteem patterns, these patterns center around the need for approval. People who are compliant will often defer to others even if they disagree.They frequently compromise their own values to maintain the status quo.

Control Patterns

Control patterns are probably the most indicative of codependent behavior. Individuals who display these patterns will attempt to change the minds of others to try and get them to see things their way. They give directions without being consulted and if the help they offer isn’t accepted they become bitter.

(Patterns and Characteristics of Codependence, Co-Dependents Anonymous, Inc., www.CoDA.org

To ensure that your family avoids a codependent situation, call Visiting Angels Eldersburg to learn how we screen and train our at home caregivers.