Codependency Isn’t Weakness — It’s a Learned Survival Skill Most of us didn’t choose codependency. We learned it. We learned to keep the peace. We learned to over-function so others wouldn’t leave. We learned to ignore our own needs because being “needed” felt safer than being seen. But what once helped us survive is now costing us: - Our peace - Our identity - Our self-respect - Our emotional and physical health Healing codependency isn’t about becoming cold, detached, or selfish. It’s about becoming solid. Solid in your values. Solid in your boundaries. Solid in your ability to say no without guilt and yes without resentment. In this group, we work on: - Self-worth that isn’t dependent on approval - Boundaries that don’t require anger or explanations - Relationships rooted in choice, not fear - Accountability without shame - Strength without suppression You’re not broken. You’re waking up. And growth doesn’t happen alone — it happens in rooms like this, with men who are doing the work.

Task: Codependency Self-Assessment & Awareness Exercise Purpose: To help you identify where codependent patterns show up in your thoughts, behaviors, and relationships—without shame or self-judgment. Instructions Read each section slowly. Answer honestly in writing. Awareness is the goal, not perfection. 1. Relationship Patterns Check all that apply: - ☐ I feel responsible for other people’s emotions - ☐ I stay silent to avoid conflict - ☐ I fear abandonment more than disrespect - ☐ I over-give hoping to be appreciated - ☐ I feel anxious when someone pulls away Reflection: Which pattern shows up most in your life right now? 2. Boundaries & Self-Abandonment - Do I say “yes” when I want to say “no”? - Do I feel guilty when I prioritize myself? - Do I ignore my needs to keep peace? Write: One recent situation where you abandoned yourself. 3. Identity & Self-Worth - Who am I outside of relationships or being needed? - How do I measure my value? - What am I afraid would happen if I stopped over-functioning? 4. Action Step Choose one boundary you will practice this week (small but real). Optional Book Companion Codependent No More – Melody Beattie Read 1 chapter and journal: What part of this chapter felt uncomfortable or familiar—and why?

Men and Codependency: Breaking the Silent Pattern Codependency in men often goes unnoticed—not because it isn’t present, but because it’s socially rewarded. Many men are taught to be providers, fixers, protectors, and problem-solvers. While these traits can be healthy, they become damaging when a man’s self-worth is tied to being needed, approved of, or indispensable to others. At its core, codependency is a loss of self. Men struggling with it may prioritize others’ needs over their own, avoid conflict at all costs, suppress emotions, or stay in unhealthy relationships out of guilt, fear, or obligation. They may feel responsible for other people’s feelings while neglecting their own boundaries. Unlike stereotypes, codependency is not weakness. It often develops from early experiences where love felt conditional—where approval, safety, or connection depended on performance or self-sacrifice. Over time, these patterns become ingrained. Healing begins with awareness. Men can learn to identify their needs, set boundaries without shame, tolerate discomfort, and build identity outside of relationships. Healthy masculinity includes emotional honesty, self-respect, and accountability—not self-abandonment. Recovery from codependency isn’t about becoming selfish; it’s about becoming whole. When men reconnect with themselves, their relationships become more balanced, authentic, and fulfilling.