Codependent Doctor

What does it really mean to take care of our mental health? Beyond diagnoses and therapy sessions lies the everyday work of nurturing our emotional well-being—a practice we often overlook until we're approaching burnout.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, I wanted to share some hard-won insights about what mental wellness actually looks like in our daily lives. Through a recent experience where my brain immediately...

In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I delve into the concept of losing ourselves in the roles we play, whether as a professional, a parent, or a caregiver. Many of us tie our self-worth to our titles and responsibilities, often without realizing it, leading to feelings of being stuck, lost, or drained. I share my personal journey of how I identified too closely with my role as a doctor, to the point where I struggled to arti...

 In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I delve into the often-overlooked aspect of healing: the loneliness that can accompany personal growth. While healing is frequently portrayed as a beautiful and empowering journey, it can also feel isolating, especially when you start setting boundaries and stepping away from toxic patterns.

I discuss how this loneliness is not a sign of failure but rather a natural part of the healing pro...

In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I delve into the complex and often misunderstood concept of "victim mode." As a family doctor and fellow codependent, I understand that many of us have experienced feelings of powerlessness, especially after trauma, burnout, or in the context of codependency. This episode is designed to foster compassion and self-awareness, rather than judgment, as we explore how victim mode mani...

In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I dive deep into the topic of burnout, a personal experience that has significantly shaped my life and career. Burnout is more than just feeling tired; it's a profound exhaustion that affects our body, mind, and emotions, often creeping up on us until we hit a breaking point. I share my own struggles with burnout, including moments of emotional outbursts and the toll it took on my hea...

In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I delve into the complex emotions of jealousy and envy—two feelings that many of us grapple with but often struggle to understand. As we explore these emotions, I aim to shed light on how they can impact our self-worth and relationships, particularly in the context of codependency.

I begin by discussing the common experience of feeling jealous or envious, whether it’s triggered by a friend’...

In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I delve into the complexities of gender identity and the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the context of codependency. I begin by emphasizing the importance of acceptance and respect for all individuals, regardless of their differences. I share my unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community and create a safe space for open dialogue.

Throughout history, human diversity ha...

In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I delve into the intricate relationship between addiction and mental health, emphasizing that addiction is often a coping mechanism for underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. As we wrap up the fifth and final episode of my miniseries on addictions, I explore various co-occurring mental health conditions that frequently accompany addiction and how they can exacerbate...

 In this episode of The Codependent Doctor we delve into the often-overlooked impact of addiction on loved ones who are not the ones struggling with substance use. While previous episodes have focused on the individual battling addiction, today, I want to shine a light on the emotional turmoil faced by partners, family members, and friends who find their lives intertwined with someone else's addiction. 

I begin by acknowledging...

In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I, Dr. Angela Downey, delve into the world of alternative addiction recovery programs, moving beyond the traditional 12-step approach that many are familiar with. Having previously explored the nature of addiction and the effectiveness of 12-step programs in our last two episodes, I recognize that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Today, I aim to highlight various paths to heali...

In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I am excited to present part two of our miniseries on addictions, focusing specifically on the transformative power of 12-step programs. Whether you’re familiar with Alcoholics Anonymous or simply curious about the principles behind these programs, this episode is designed to provide valuable insights for everyone—whether you’re on your own recovery journey, supporting someone else, or jus...

This episode is the first of a mini series I have created on addiction. It offers a deep and compassionate exploration of addiction, its roots, and the interconnection with codependency. The discussion highlights various forms of addiction, the impact of trauma, denial, and the importance of self-reflection and support in the recovery process. 

• Exploring the complexities of addiction and codependency 
• Addiction man...

Ever wondered why solitude can feel so enriching, yet loneliness feels so heavy? Join me as we dissect the nuanced differences between being alone and feeling lonely. Discover how alone time can be a crucial pillar for personal growth and self-connection, providing a much-needed escape from external pressures. We'll explore loneliness as an emotional signal urging us to seek meaningful bonds and why even a room full of people ...

Bonus episode:   Navigate the often turbulent waters of family holiday gatherings with newfound confidence and peace. Discover techniques to defuse escalating tensions and let go of the unrealistic expectations that often lead to frustration. Through our discussion, you'll gain tools to build and maintain boundaries, ensuring you protect your energy and well-being while still enjoying the festive season.

Send me a mes...

Unlock the secret to a fulfilling relationship by understanding the profound impact of love languages. Join me  as I guide you through the transformative power of recognizing and communicating love languages, based on Dr. Gary Chapman's groundbreaking work. Many of us struggle with feelings of being unloved due to mismatched expressions of affection, but it doesn't have to be this way. By tuning into this episode, you&apo...

What if prioritizing yourself could be your greatest strength rather than a selfish act? Join me in this eye-opening episode where I unpacks a lifelong misconception that prioritizing self-care is selfish, especially for those overcoming codependency. I explore the roots of this struggle, often stemming from early teachings that placed others' needs above our own, leading to exhaustion and resentment. I offer a refreshing pers...

Unlock the secret to transforming your personal and professional relationships through the power of emotional intelligence. Discover how building self-awareness can be the first step towards understanding and managing your emotions effectively. Our discussion focuses on how many people unknowingly internalize blame and self-doubt, leading to a dismissal of their own feelings. Through practical guidance and personal stories, learn h...

Unlock the secrets of your relationship dynamics  as we take a deep dive into the world of attachment styles. Ever wondered why some relationships feel secure while others are filled with uncertainty? Join us as we explore the foundations laid by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, tracing how our earliest bonds with caregivers shape our adult connections. Discover how understanding these patterns can empower you to break free from gen...

Could the bonds in your closest relationships be holding you back instead of lifting you up? Join me as I unravel the intricate web of enmeshment that can blur boundaries and obscure individuality in the relationships we cherish most. This episode sheds light on how these dynamics differ from healthy relationships, where respect and mutual enjoyment reign, fostering individuality rather than dependency.

Discover the nuance...