#48 Breaking Free from Co-dependency: Understanding & Overcoming Relationship Addiction#48 Breaking Free from Co-dependency: Understanding & Overcoming Relationship Addiction
The Trauma Recovery School
Bonita Ackerman du Preez discusses co-dependency, its roots in trauma, and offers strategies for fostering healthier relationships.
7:35•4 May 2025
Breaking Free: Tackling Co-dependency in Relationships
Episode Overview
- Co-dependency often stems from past trauma.
- Fear of abandonment drives overcompensation in relationships.
- Setting boundaries is crucial for healthier relationships.
- Self-care helps in reducing co-dependent behaviours.
- Improving self-esteem is key to overcoming relationship addiction.
“A trauma survivor may have learned early in life that their safety or their sense of worth is dependent on other people.”
In this episode of The Trauma Recovery School, Bonita Ackerman du Preez dives into the complex topic of co-dependency, a common challenge for those grappling with trauma and PTSD. Bonita unpacks the intricate patterns of behaviour that lead individuals to prioritise others at their own expense, often driven by a deep-seated fear of abandonment. You'll hear about how past trauma can shape these patterns, causing people to derive their sense of worth from serving others.
This episode is not just about identifying the problem but also offering practical advice on breaking free from these cycles. Bonita suggests starting with understanding your self-esteem and learning to set boundaries. By pulling back gradually and focusing on self-care, individuals can begin to forge healthier relationships. Bonita's insights are both relatable and eye-opening, providing listeners with a roadmap to reclaiming their independence. Her conversational style makes complex psychological concepts accessible and engaging.
If you're ready to explore the dynamics of your relationships and seek healthier connections, this episode offers valuable tools and encouragement.
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