While dependence is not a symptom of depression, it certainly contributes to depressive symptoms

What is a dependency? Simply put, dependence is a pattern

Caregiver behavior

”

Sure, it's a way of interpersonal communication, but it's actually a little

New Concept Psychologist

Professor Rong Xinqi

"Dependent behavior is often an understandable reaction or coping technique that develops in response to worrying and unbearable situations in one's own life or the behavior of others,"

"While this isn't a productive coping technique, it's much friendlier and more useful to understand that people with dependent behaviors are struggling to manage their feelings, behaviors, and lives — and that their solutions are often meaningful," he said

So why say "dependence may contribute to chronicity.

depression

"What? Let's take a look.

How are dependencies formed?

Studies have shown that many situations in childhood trigger dependence

Abandoned;

Control the environment;

Emotional abuse;

Domestic violence;

Narcissistic family system;

Neglected;

Personality disorders;

Relatives and friends with special needs;

Substance use disorders

Examples of dependent behaviors

Dependency behavior looks different

Agree with the boss's unreasonable overtime, even if you have a very important date;

Prioritize problem solving for your partner, even if you have urgent work on hand;

Feeling unable to work or sleep until you and your partner resolve their conflict;

Use your savings to pay your partner's bills while also supporting him to continue shopping

Is there a link between dependence and depression?

While dependence is not a symptom of depression, it certainly contributes to depressive symptoms

"Situations that create dependency patterns often have frustrating details," Professor Rong explains

Understandably, this level of exhaustion can lead to symptoms that usually coincide with depression, such as drowsiness, mood changes, and a lack of interest in

Basically, you're "idling"

What are the signs of dependence?

Signs of dependency include:

Difficulty expressing needs;

Exhaustion;

Fear of abandonment;

Despair;

Irritability;

Lack of boundaries;

Low self-esteem;

Sadness;

Stigma;

Taking responsibility for others, etc

What are the consequences of dependence?

The consequences of dependence exist in the range from mild to severe – in milder cases, you may be less satisfied with life; In more extreme cases, it can have a negative impact on
your studies, work, finances, or physical and mental health.

Dependencies can result in:

Exhaust your energy;

Decreased level of physical health;

Difficulty in emotional intimacy;

Disappointment with others;

Unmet needs;

Unstable relationships
.

How to deal with it?

From a combination of biological, psychological, and societal perspectives, dependence and depression can be managed
together.

1.
Psychotherapy

Professor Rong said psychotherapy can help unravel beliefs and behaviors
of dependence.

"As with anything that begins in childhood, dependence often has such a strong foothold in adulthood that it is reflexive and not taken into account," he said
.

"Therapists can reflect on dependence, including unhelpful beliefs and destructive behaviors that those who have been dependent on for a long time may not have noticed," Professor Rong added
.

2.
The care, support and help of relatives and friends

"Try to figure out the patterns you rely on in your life," Professor Rong said
.
For example, you may always be with people who need a lot of help and have someone to guide them
.

Once you understand and become aware of your dependency patterns, then you can slowly try to correct your unhelpful beliefs and destructive behaviors
.
Of course, during this period, it is indispensable to the care, support and help from your relatives and friends around you, and they will be the driving force to support you to persevere
.

3.
Lifestyle changes

Professor Rong believes that it is important
to try to do self-conditioning.

"Try to make time for things you love," he added
.
"Spending time with someone you like and keeping yourself physically and mentally healthy can also help
.
Try to understand your own needs and not what others tell you
.
”

Some of the self-conditioning recommendations that become more independent include:

Learn restorative yoga classes;

Mindfulness meditation practice;

Record self-discovery;

Read a good book in your spare time;

Take a hot shower before bedtime, etc
.

4.
Medication

A professional psychologist or psychiatrist can help you determine if your condition can benefit
from medication.
Antidepressants are commonly used to help regulate feel-good neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine
.