If you have codependent traits and you’re feeling highly stressed or anxious, you’re not alone – and this article is for you. Codependents are like sponges. We absorb other people’s problems, feelings, and energy. This takes a big toll on us and leaves many of us with high levels of chronic stress and anxiety. What is anxiety? Anxiety […]
Detach from Difficult People without Justifying, Arguing, Defending, and Explaining
Are you familiar with the acronym JADE? It’s a reminder to not justify, argue, defend, and explain. If you’re you repeatedly drawn into conversations or arguments that seem to go nowhere, feel compelled to respond to accusations that you know are false, or feel like you have to justify your behavior or choices to a “difficult” family member, please read […]
Anxiety and Codependency
This post contains affiliate links. Beneath codependency there’s often anxiety When you live in a high conflict, unpredictable or chaotic situation, it’s not surprising that you’re tense, worried, and “walking on eggshells”. Understandably, many codependents suffer from anxiety. And even if you no longer live in a tense environment, codependency is usually born from trauma which can contribute to […]
Learn More About Codependency (Podcast Interview)
Codependency can be a confusing term! Have you ever wondered if you’re codependent? And if you are, where did it come from — and more importantly, how do you overcome it? I was recently interviewed by Lourdes Viado, Ph.D., the host of the popular podcast Women In-Depth, all about codependency. The Women In-Depth podcast “…goes beneath the surface and […]
What is an Anxious Attachment Style?
In my previous post, What’s my Attachment Style and Why Does it Matter?, I gave you an overview of the three primary attachment styles (secure, anxious, and avoidant) and how attachment styles become the blueprint for our adult romantic relationships. Securely attached people tend to have happier, longer lasting relationships built on trust. They feel comfortable expressing their […]
How to Support Your Spouse in Addiction Recovery
This post contains affiliate links. Realizing your partner has a problem with alcohol, drugs, sex, pornography, gambling, or any other addiction is a very painful reality. The best case scenario is that your partner also recognizes his/her addiction and seeks help in order to recover. Unfortunately, recovery doesn’t go in a straight line. Most addicts struggle with denial, relapse, and changing […]
What is an Avoidant Attachment Style?
Approximately 25% of us have an Avoidant Attachment Style. In my earlier post, What’s my Attachment Style and Why Does it Matter?, I explained the three primary attachment styles (secure, anxious, and avoidant) and how understanding your attachment style can help you have happier and healthier adult romantic relationships. Securely attached people tend to have happy, long-lasting […]
Coping with Challenging People and Situations During the Holidays
Will you be facing some challenging people or situations as you celebrate the holidays this year? Holiday celebrations can be joyful, but they can also be stressful when we encounter “difficult” people and more demands on our time, energy, and finances. Often there are unspoken expectations or traditions that we feel obligated to participate in, leaving us feeling resentful […]