Codependency doesn't just affect romantic relationships—it can appear in our friendships too, creating anxiety, over-functioning, and emotional entanglement that feels just as intense without the relationship label. Emotional intimacy is emotional intimacy, regardless of whether it's with a friend or partner, and our attachment patterns don't discriminate.

• Friendships lack the clear definitions and expectations that romantic relationships have—there's no "define the relationship" talk or breakup script
• Unspoken friendship rules create confusion, especially for those with codependent tendencies who overfunction to maintain connections
• Friendship grief is just as valid as romantic heartbreak, though society rarely acknowledges it in the same way
• Jealousy and fear can emerge when friends develop new relationships or life changes, triggering abandonment wounds
• Notice which friendships feel genuinely safe versus which ones just feel familiar due to shared history

You can buy my books now on Amazon.

🦋 Enough As I Am - A healing workbook for anyone navigating people-pleasing, guilt, or self-abandonment. It’s filled with practical tools to help you build boundaries and reclaim your self-worth.

🖋️ Enough As I Grow - A 365-day journal with daily prompts to guide you through your healing journey one day at a time.

If you're interested in a list of books that I recommend to help you on your journey you can request it by clicking on the link in my show notes.

🦋 Enough As I Am Workbook on Amazon.

🖋️ Enough as I Grow 365 day Guided Journal on Amazon

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Email: codependentdoctor@gmail.com
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48: Friendship or Relationship? Understanding Emotional Intimacy and Codependency