If you have a loved one with alcohol addiction who has lied to you, you probably feel pretty angry. If the lying has become habitual, you may be ready to give up on the person or cut ties. This is an understandable reaction, but before considering ending your relationship, you should know why alcoholics lie to those close to them. It may help you see another side to the problem so you can stay supportive and encourage your loved one to get help.
At My 5 Palms, we understand that you may be fed up with being lied to by someone addicted to alcohol. Our addiction therapy programs can help heal your relationship as you support your loved one on their recovery journey. Rather than write them off or cut them out of your life, please encourage them to seek help by filling out our online form or calling us at 1.844.675.1022.
Why Do Alcoholics Lie and Blame Others?
Even the most honest, trustworthy person may lie to others after developing an alcohol addiction. So why do alcoholics lie and blame others? The disease is powerful and can cause changes in the brain that affect how a person thinks and acts. But the reasons why alcoholics lie may be different in each situation. Here are some common reasons why someone with alcohol addiction may start lying to those close to them:
They Do Not Want to Go Into Addiction Treatment
Although rehab can be life-changing, some people are afraid to enroll in a treatment program. They may have misconceptions about what happens in rehab or may not be ready to quit drinking. To avoid being urged to get professional help, they may lie about their alcohol consumption.
They Are Embarrassed About Having a Drinking Problem
Although alcohol addiction is a chronic medical condition, there is still a stigma that it indicates a moral failure. Rather than admit they have a problem, someone who feels shame about their drinking may lie about how much they consume.
They Do Not Want to Disappoint Their Loved Ones
Some people struggling with drinking may worry about having those closest to them see them in a negative light if they admit to having an alcohol use disorder.
They Are Trying to Avoid Consequences
In certain situations, a person may lie about their drinking problem to prevent consequences such as losing their job or custody of their children.
Some people also lie to sustain their addiction. For example, they may ask for money and lie about what they need it for because they know you will not approve of them spending it on more alcohol.
How to Rebuild Trust After Alcohol Addiction
Once you catch your loved one in a lie about their alcohol addiction, you may rightfully feel upset with them. And if the lies happen more than once, you will lose trust. It can be tough to take them for their word when this happens. But it is possible to rebuild trust. A few things need to happen to start repairing your relationship after a series of lying and blaming:
- Your loved one needs to admit they have a drinking problem and are willing to get help.
- They must enroll in an addiction treatment program and commit to recovery.
- They need individual therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction and explore how their addiction affects their thoughts and actions.
- You should attend family therapy sessions to speak openly about how addiction hurts your relationship and learn how to move forward and rebuild trust and communication.
Some addiction treatment programs, such as 12-step-based treatment, include moral inventories and making amends as part of recovery. This process can help you and your loved one clear the air and release any remaining grudges.
Get Life Back on Track with Addiction Therapy at My 5 Palms
Sadly, lying and blaming others is a standard part of alcohol addiction. It can drive a wedge between friends and family members, potentially destroying relationships permanently. Do not let alcohol addiction come between you and someone you care about. Contact My 5 Palms today at 1.844.675.1022 to learn how our addiction therapy programs in Florida can help.
