New York, NY 3/11/2010 12:38:32 AM
News / Education

Drug Abuse and Co-Dependency

Co-dependency is often as serious a problem as actual drug abuse. This is because family members and loved ones who suffer from co-dependency can be considered just as addicted as the person who is caught up in drug abuse. Co-dependency is defined as being dependant on a person, even if that person is involved in harmful activities, such as drug abuse, in order to satisfy one’s desire to feel needed.


Co-dependency is especially evident when the co-dependent person makes excuses for the behavior of the addicted person (adult or child) while under the influence of drugs. However, there is one other aspect of co-dependency that is often not addressed.


This is the fact that some co-dependent people actually encourage the person suffering from drug abuse to continue the abuse. After all, if the addicted person stops being addicted, then the co-dependent person will no longer be needed, at least in that respect.


For this reason drug abuse treatment that addresses co-dependency is as important as treatment for the drug abuse itself. This is why many drug abuse treatment centers either include or offer programs for co-dependency behavior.


Drug abuse treatment for co-dependency includes counseling sessions, both individual and group, that require the co-dependent person to face the situation. Co-dependency is explained, and the co-dependent person is given ways in which he or she can control this behavior.


Drug abuse treatment centers which offer help for co-dependency can be found in states all across America. By calling 1-800-559-9503 or visiting http://www.alcoholanddrugabuse.com/, those who are interested in co-dependency information can find the help they need.