Enabling Behavior

An enabling behavior is an action by a loved one that allows a person with substance use disorder to keep drinking or using drugs without facing the consequences. Enabling might include making excuses, calling in sick, or paying legal fees for the person. These actions often can keep the person with substance use…

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Addiction Enabling Behavior

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Enabling Behavior

An enabling behavior is an action by a loved one that allows a person with substance use disorder to keep drinking or using drugs without facing the consequences.

Enabling might include making excuses, calling in sick, or paying legal fees for the person. These actions often can keep the person with substance use disorder from realizing or admitting that he or she has a problem.

Family members, partners, or friends who act this way are sometimes called "codependent."

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.