Co-dependancy issues aside but not forgotten, you say you are an empath. I’ve known some to state this when they really are not; what they are is highly sensitive to real or perceived threats, insults, their own unhappiness, etc. Empaths can feel as much positive energy from another as negative. If you are an empath, how do you think this enters into the equation?

My adoptive mother had an unhealthy attachment to her only birth child, a son no less, who was the golden boy. This unhealthy relationship was evident to everyone except my mother. The hope I see on your end is that you are recognizing things in yourself (becoming self-aware) and that is critical. Big applause for you! And now, to make it even better, you are working toward an end, toward healing yourself, with the goal of moving beyond emotional dependence. You are not alone in struggling with ED. It may be more outwardly pronounced with you than with some others, but reaching your goal–which will take time–will make becoming emotionally independent that much more rewarding. I’m excited by the thought of you getting there…and in the meanwhile, stop along this path to enjoy the journey. It’s an important one. It’s not just the destination that counts. Take pride in the milestones and accomplishments along the way. Breathe them in and realize how good each step feels. You deserve to be emotionally independent, and obviously, both you and your daughter will benefit from it.

Best wishes on this new path. It can be done.