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The Lies We Tell Ourselves When Addicted: Facing the Truth

It can be challenging to admit help is needed when people are addicted to substances. The lies we tell ourselves are much easier to accept than facing the truth. Often, the lies start out small, but they continue to grow and grow. Eventually, people no longer remember what is true and what is a lie. Once someone is ready to seek help, part of the recovery process is accepting the truth about addiction.

The Deceptive Nature of Addiction

Part of the deceptive nature of addiction often involves leading double lives. Individuals show their family and friends one life while they are secretly indulging in substance use. Individuals also create excuses to rationalize their behaviors and drug use. It is easy to convince themselves they can manage their substance use and fall into a delusional state of thinking.

Lie #1: “I Can Stop Anytime I Want”

One of the most common lies we tell ourselves is, “I can stop anytime I want.” Most substance users believe they can stop whenever they want and choose to do so. However, substances alter brain chemistry and brain functions. As a result, using substances becomes the priority just to function when addiction takes over.

Some people also use this lie to justify a relapse. They will tell themselves, “This time will be different.” they will convince themselves that they can manage their substance use much better this time. Yet, when someone relapses, they quickly return to the same level of usage they were when they stopped.

Lie #2: “I’m Only Hurting Myself with Addiction”

Addiction has far-reaching effects on everyone close to the addicted individual. Their friends and family members constantly worry. They stress about whether their loved one could accidentally overdose and die. They may even blame themselves for their loved one’s addiction. This takes a toll physically and mentally on them.

Lie #3: “I Need This to Cope with Life”

Life can be full of stress and anxiety. Some people exercise or take yoga classes to alleviate these things. Other people turn to substances to cope. It is easy to lie and tell ourselves that the substance use is justified because it makes us feel better. Unfortunately, this leads to addiction and impacts to physical and mental health.

Lie #4: “Things Aren’t That Bad”

One of the lies we tell ourselves to justify substance use is, “Things aren’t that bad.” It’s easy to try to downplay the seriousness of addiction and substance use. We might say things like:

  • “I haven’t missed any work, so I don’t have a problem.”
  • “I don’t use constantly, every single day, so I’m not addicted.”
  • “I only use small amounts of substances therefore, I don’t have an addiction.”
  • “I can function rather well, even when I use, so I’m not an addict.

Lie #5: “I’m in Control of My Addiction”

People often have the misconception they can control their substance use. They usually tell this lie because it sounds better than facing the truth. They would rather ignore the reality that they have become dependent on the substance. It gives the illusion of being in control, even though the substance is now in control.

Lie #6: “My Lies Don’t Hurt Anyone Else”

The problem with this lie is that they actually do hurt others. People can spin so many lies to the point they no longer remember who they told what. This leads to them being found out and called out for their lying. As a result, friends and family no longer trust their loved ones. They will not believe anything they say because they think it is just another lie. Ultimately, lies hurt those closest to the addict and destroy trust and relationships.

The Power of Denial: How Addiction Warps Reality

Denial can be very powerful when someone is addicted to substances. The lies we tell ourselves become distorted as our thought processes and brain chemistry alter. Eventually, it is easy to start to believe the lies we told are the truth.

Why We Cling to These Lies: Emotional and Psychological Roots

People cling to these lies for different reasons. Sometimes, they know they are lying but find lying easier than telling the truth because it has become second nature. Other times, they would rather lie because it has become effortless than admit the truth.

Facing the Truth: Steps Toward Freedom

When people are ready to admit they are addicted to substances, it’s time to face the truth. This is a vital first step toward freedom from addiction. Jesus told us he is the way, the truth, and the life. He also said, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 

Faith and Being an Agent of Truth

Once people can face the truth and stop lying, they become agents of truth as they renew their faith. It’s like a huge weight is lifted off of our shoulders. Waves of peace and calmness rush over us as we welcome Jesus back into our lives. In that moment, you know you can move forward, no matter what things you have done.

Truth Is the Path To Recovery at Spring2Life

At Spring2Life Recovery, our faith-based addiction treatment programs help people overcome substance use. We help them accept the truth over the lies we tell ourselves, which is a vital path to recovery. Contact our caring and compassionate team today to take your first steps to a substance-free future.

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