YOU ARE NOT ALONE - A companion online community discussion board for The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast with Paul Gilmartin

I just got out of a 4 year codependent relationship. We were friends, companions, lovers, etc. I don't think I have a hard time loving myself (not to say I have a great self-image), but I know she did. We were both actively using hard drugs when the relationship began, but we got clean and stayed clean together. That was within the first year of our relationship... As time went on we had less and less fun together, and the fights/issues between us were stupid and cyclical. We both knew this was coming months ago, so I'd call the breakup mutual, yet she made the call so I still feel rejected. My feelings are simultaneously of freedom and of heartbreak. I NEED A HUG!!!!! I don't have friends around because I always ditched them for my relationship (though I know I could reach out), and I don't feel comfortable going to family for support. I'm in therapy, but it's CBT and what the heck can that help for a codependent suffering heartbreak. Whatever, time will heal, and I know I can find someone better, but I still want her here with me right now. Hugs? Anyone?

*HUG* for you. I highly suggest reaching out, ya never know what you could find. I was lucky and found a few people I believe I can rely on. It's a good feeling. And if not? Well, easy way to weed out the yuck.

I love this:

*hug*

Yeah, I'd suggest reaching out to someone you trust. They'll probably be glad to have you back as a friend, and you deserve support. Hope all gets better xx

Huggggg. I can definitely relate to feeling friendless after being in a codependent relationship, but I agree with the other two posters -- try reaching out to old friends even if it feels fruitless. Hell, you reached out here to total strangers and we love you.