Codependency is defined by a group of symptoms that typically occur in those who live with an alcoholic. These symptoms usually include the assumption of care-taking responsibilities, denial of feelings, perfectionism, fear, and dishonesty. A person exhibiting codependent behavior may or may not be chemically dependent, but usually has many of the same characteristics as the addicted person.

Awareness of this problem has grown over the last few years. Codependent people may lose their individual identity because living with an addicted person hampers their freedom and ability to express themselves. They learn early not to express opinions other than that held by their partners, and they usually attempt to compensate for their partners' irresponsible behavior.

Individuals who suffer from codependency issues feel confused, angry, inadequate, or guilty. By focusing all their attention on the addicted or abusive person, the codependent's own needs are generally neglected. This often causes long-term difficulties in identity development, boundary setting, and self-esteem. Codependency is typically characterized by the desire to be loved by others to the point of neglecting one's own needs and goals, and codependents often attract partners who are addictive, abusive, or otherwise dysfunctional.

The physical and emotional consequences of codependency include depression, anxiety, relationship dysfunctions, and cycling between hyperactivity / lethargy. Physical problems often result from untreated codependency. These may include: gastro-intestinal disturbances, colitis, ulcers, migraine headaches, non-specific rashes and skin problems, high blood pressure, insomnia, sleep disorders, and other stress related physical illnesses.