Codependency  refers to the dependence on the needs of, or control of, another. It also   often involves placing a lower priority on one’s own needs, while being   excessively preoccupied with the needs of others. Codependency can occur in   any type of relationship, including family, work, friendship, and also   romantic, peer or community relationships. Codependency may also be   characterized by denial, low self-esteem and excessive compliance.

Codependency   affects people in a variety of ways. Common characteristics of Codependents   include:

Excessive   Care-taking:   Codependents feel responsible for others’ actions, feelings, choices and   emotional well-being. They try to anticipate loved one’s needs and often   wonder why others do not do the same for them.

Low   self-esteem   Codependents are people who need to be needed. They will only feel important   and valuable when they are helping others, and blame themselves for    anything that goes wrong.

Denial:   Codependents typically ignore, minimize or rationalize problems in the   relationship, believing that “things will get better when….” They stay busy to   avoid thinking about their feelings.

Fear   of anger:   Codependents are afraid of both their own and their loved one’s anger, because   they fear it will destroy the relationship.

Health   problems:   The stress of Codependency can lead to headaches, ulcers, asthma and high   blood pressure.

Addictive  Behavior:   Codependents may themselves develop addictions in an attempt to deal with   their pain and frustration