Caregivers and Codependency Home Care in Fresno, CA

Codependency is used to describe two individuals who feel as if they “need” to stay in an unhealthy situation. Typically one individual is dominant over the other, and attempts to control the thoughts and feelings of the other individual. These types of scenarios exist in all walks of life, including home care. If you believe that your friend or loved one may be suffering from a codependent situation, it may be time to bring in home care professionals - such as Visiting Angels of Fresno.

The question is: where do I draw the line between helpful behavior and hurtful behavior? In order to properly identify codependency, it is best to define it. Such a definition is provided by Co-Dependents Anonymous, Inc.: “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.

If you find that your loved one’s are exhibiting the following behaviors, it may be time to bring in professional help.

Denial Patterns

Denial patterns can be identified through the inability of another individual to identify feelings in others, attempting to minimize those feelings, and potentially viewing oneself as completely selfless.

Low Self-Esteem Patterns

Low self-esteem can be characterized by the following: having trouble making choices, judging yourself harshly, rejecting recognition, not asking for help when it is needed, and overvaluing the approval of others.

Compliance Patterns

These are similar to low self-esteem patterns and include compromising values, being empathetic to others, being loyal to a fault, reluctance to express one’s views out of fear of disapproval and putting aside one’s own interests.

Control Patterns

Control patterns include assuming that others are unable to care for themselves, persuading others to think and feel the same way you do, resenting those who do not accept your help, offering unsolicited advice, or giving unwanted or excessive gifts.

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

Regardless of what recourse must be taken to stop this type of behavior, it is absolutely essential for caregivers to balance their recipients’ needs with their own. If a caregivers needs are not being met then the likelihood of burning out increases.

Call Visiting Angels of Fresno, CA to learn about our home care services and how we can help you provide the right care for your loved one.