Plain answer
In addiction families, codependency often looks like monitoring, rescuing, over-functioning, making excuses, absorbing consequences, or tying your own peace to whether the addicted person is okay today.
Back to glossaryAddiction family glossary
What is codependency?
Codependency is over-responsibility for another person's addiction, emotions, choices, or recovery.
What to do next
Turn the definition into one clear family action
If this term describes what is happening at home, do not stop at the definition. Use the related guidance below to choose the next step: check the pattern, get family coaching, attend live family support, or use Family Bridge when the family needs shared structure after treatment, relapse concerns, or a new boundary plan.