Codependency describes a dysfunctional relationship where one person is enabling the other’s addiction, immaturity, or irresponsible behavior. Although the enabler may have well-meaning intentions, they are often unconsciously reinforcing addictive or other negative behaviors.
The American Medical Association classified alcoholism as a disease in 1956, but it took until 1987 for drug addiction to receive that same classification. Both diseases are now clinically known as substance use disorders (SUD).