Have you ever Googled “am I too attached to my partner?” If so, you’re not alone. Many people worry about their level of attachment in relationships. As a Codependency and Addiction Coach Specialist, I often see this question pop up, and it’s a valid concern.
Codependency can often masquerade as deep love and connection, but it can lead to unhealthy patterns in your relationship. So, how can you tell if your attachment is healthy or crossing the line into codependency?
Here are some signs to watch out for:
- You constantly crave their attention and reassurance. While it’s natural to want to connect with your partner, needing constant validation and reassurance can be a sign of insecurity and codependency.
- You struggle to make decisions without them. Do you find yourself constantly seeking their opinion or needing their approval before making even small decisions? This can indicate a lack of self-trust and an over-reliance on your partner.
- You feel lost or incomplete without them. It’s wonderful to feel deeply connected to your partner, but your sense of self and happiness shouldn’t depend entirely on them. If you feel lost or incomplete when you’re apart, it’s a sign you may be too attached.
- You prioritise their needs above your own. It’s important to be considerate of your partner’s needs, but consistently putting them before your own can lead to resentment and an imbalance in the relationship.
- You’re afraid to express your true feelings. Do you hold back your opinions or avoid expressing your needs for fear of upsetting your partner or causing conflict? This can be a sign of codependency.
- You have difficulty maintaining boundaries. Healthy relationships require healthy boundaries. If you struggle to set limits or say no to your partner, it can be a sign of over-attachment.
If you resonate with these signs, it may be helpful to:
- Explore the root of your attachment style. Often, codependent tendencies stem from past experiences or unmet needs.
- Develop your own interests and hobbies. Cultivating a fulfilling life outside of your relationship can strengthen your sense of self and reduce codependency.
- Learn to communicate assertively. Expressing your needs and feelings openly and honestly is crucial for a healthy relationship.
- Prioritise self-care. Taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being is essential for building self-esteem and reducing reliance on your partner.
If you’re ready to break free from unhealthy attachment patterns and create a more fulfilling and balanced relationship, I invite you to take my free codependency quiz and book a free discovery call. Together, we can explore your results and discuss how I can support you on your journey to recovery.
Warm regards,
Roslyn Saunders Codependency and Addiction Coach Specialist
