Emotional dependence results in an excessive need for the affection of others. It can happen in a romantic relationship and friendship or even in the professional environment. This psychological disorder is considered a disease when it causes suffering. Causes, symptoms and solutions: general practitioners and psychiatrists on Live take stock.
Table of Contents
What Is Emotional Dependence?
When, in an individual, love and self-esteem depend on external factors, we speak of emotional dependence. This disorder refers to a person’s psychological inability to live without approval or favorable judgment. Emotional dependence very often leads to a lack of self-confidence in all areas of life. By constantly seeking the support of their partner, loved ones, friends or colleagues, emotional addicts tend to fade in front of others and therefore lose sight of what matters to them. This erasure and the fear of abandonment can lead the emotionally dependent person to accept the unacceptable (violence, humiliation, harassment, etc.), particularly within the couple.
What Are The Causes Of Emotional Dependence?
Multiple factors can explain the development of emotional dependence, but we see that it mainly affects people with weak attachment ties. It can, for example, occur in people who are hypersensitive, shy, introverted, lacking in self-confidence or who have experienced difficulties in a previous relationship. Specific childhood traumas (lack of affection, abuse, emotional shock) can also favor its appearance.
Can Affective Dependence Occur Outside The Couple?
This psychological disorder is an obstacle to healthy relationships within the couple, friendship, or work.
In Friendship And In Love
Emotional dependence in friendship or romantic relationships often manifests in jealousy and a need for exclusivity on the emotional dependent vis-à-vis the people he cares approximately. A tacit competition can therefore appear with the partner, the friends, but also with the people who surround them. Proofs of friendship or love and attention will always be unsatisfactory in the eyes of the affective addict, therefore causing significant psychological fatigue.
At Work
Anyone can need recognition and consideration in the workplace. When this need for approval from the line manager and employees hinders the achievement of professional missions, it is close to emotional dependence. Some manifestations of this disorder at work can be, for example, fear of failure, a tendency to procrastinate or excessive perfectionism, a lack of autonomy, or the appearance of an impostor syndrome.
Emotional Addiction In Men
Emotional dependency can affect both men and women, although this topic is female. Men, however, are just as prone to suffer from emotional dependence, especially in romantic relationships. Feeling of lack, jealousy or emotional blackmail: emotional support in men and women can lead to coagulopathy.
What Are The Symptoms Of Emotional Dependence?
The manifestations of affective dependence can vary in intensity depending on the individual. However, some common symptoms were noted, such as fear of abandonment, jealousy, chronic dissatisfaction, inability to make decisions, and self-esteem. Compulsive behavior ( overconsumption of alcohol, tobacco. Drugs or video games. For example) or even anxiety. Without appropriate care, emotional dependence can lead to depression.
Is There A Test To Diagnose It?
Although there is no medically recognized test to assess a person’s degree of emotional dependence, a mental health professional can help you identify this disorder. The latter may, during a consultation. Ask yourself questions about your physical and psychological health and relationships with others.
How To Get Out Of Emotional Dependence?
Overcoming emotional dependence begins with awareness. The individual must realize that he is suffering from this disorder. Psychological support is often necessary for to elf-esteem and self-confidence, and to refocus The fear of abandonment or of finding oneself alone can. For example, be controlled thanks to a few simple exercises such as voluntarily exposing oneself to moments of solitude, a leisure activity, or even better. We are accepting our emotions and frustrations. Practicing a sport and meditating can also help regain self-confidence and dispel negative thoughts.
What To Do In A Breakup When One Is Emotionally Dependent?
In treating anxiety disorders and addictive behaviors, cognitive behavioral therapies can be very effective for people suffering from emotional dependence and wishing to recover from a painful breakup. Therapeutic care aims to change the dependency pattern and gradually relearn appropriate behavior to regain autonomy and balance in couple relationships.
Which Health Professional To Consult In Case Of Emotional Dependence?
The repercussions of emotional requirement can be severe. If you think you are emotionally dependent and suffer from anxiety or depression, you seek medical advice. You can consult your doctor, general practitioners, and psychiatrists on Live if the latter is unavailable.
If you are a victim of marital violence, a listening, information, and national orientation number is at your disposal, 3919. Contact the police by dialing 17 or 114 for deaf, hard of hearing, aphasic or dysphasic people in an emergency.