Facing Codependence: What It Is, Where It Comes from, How It Sabotages Our Lives

I finally learnt what has been wrong with me for so many years. this should be a compulsory book for all GPs, therapists and counsellors. If it was, I could have been saved from 15 years of suffering and taking very addictive antidepressants. I've learnt from this book exactly what is wrong with me. I've now joined Codependents Anonymous and starting to work with the workbook by the same author. If you've been struggling with your life, with depression, anxiety, dysfunctional relationships, this book will most likely explain to you the reasons behind your suffering.

The first time I read this book, I had a lot of moments when I thought, "that could be / might be me". Because of that, and because you can miss a lot on a first read through a book like this, I read it again immediately after I finished it the first time. The second time through, l got a lot more from it. It was a real eye opener, I recognised a lot of myself in parts, also which parts did not apply, and started to also become aware of when I was acting or reacting in certain ways. If you can ignore some of the americanism, it is a very good description of co-dependency that is very different to what you find on a google search, and for that reason alone it is a good place to start. It opened my eyes and it may open yours.

Definitely one of the best books I’ve ever read. If you’ve ever heard the term codependence and been curious then google it and if that sounds like you buy this book. It has taken me 4 months to finish it due to how emotionally triggering it is but I’m already seeing the positive results in my life from being aware of what my issues with dealing with certain people are and how to effectively tackle them. As a result I’ve left many old wounds, limiting beliefs and dysfunctional relationships in 2018.

There are so many other reviews outlining the contents of this book; I shall, therefore, not cover this again simply to provide another exegesis.I found this book to provide huge amounts of identification for me and moreover, it provides a considerable amount of non-theoretical, layperson friendly, explanation of the origins of co-dependency. For me, this is important in understanding how patterns and characteristics develop and therefore, creates a solid foundation from which to work an informed path towards recovery and healing. If you do not already have a sense of the importance of a higher power, or your own relationship with your own higher power you may find some of the ideas presented difficult to accept. We are each different people with our own journeys, but, for me, this book has been enlightening, empowering and invaluable.

Provides invaluable insight into the self. Helps to observe and understand painful behaviour patterns and where they have come from. Not a holiday read or something to scan. A helpful tool for personal insight and growth. *Can be painful at times. Consider counselling / talking therapy to help to digest and accept your new learning. Don’t go it alone!