PEOPLE AT HIGHER RISK FOR CODEPENDENCY
By Linda S. Barnes, Ph.D.

Those who have a loved one suffering from drug or alcohol addiction are not the only ones at risk for codependency. The 2000 U.S. Census indicated that 4.5 million Americans were suffering from dementia. It is estimated that number will rise to 13.2 million by the year 2050.

Having a loved one who suffers from either a chronic physical or mental illness increases one’s risk for codependency. Other risk factors include:

1. Children who learn codependent behavior by seeing it modeled in their family or origin;
2. Children who grow up with parents who are neglectful, self-centered, abuse drugs or alcohol or suffer from a chronic mental or physical illness;
3. People or see themselves as helpers and/or caretakers; and
4. People who tend to put the needs of others ahead of their own.
   

As the baby boomers age and as parents and loved ones require more care, it is important to keep track of, and strike a balance between, taking care of oneself and taking care of a loved one.

Dr. Barnes is a psychotherapist in practice in Beverly Hills and West Los Angeles. She is a member of the Independent Psychotherapy Network.