Common Addiction Lies
“I can stop anytime.”
This minimizes the loss of control and avoids accountability.
What truth replaces “I can stop anytime”
If I could stop anytime, I already would have.
Name one common trigger
Stress, boredom, loneliness, anger, certain people or places.
Name one healthy coping skill
Breathing, walking, journaling, grounding, calling someone.
What does honesty mean in recovery?
Being truthful with yourself and others, even when uncomfortable.
“I don’t have a problem.”
Denial protects the addiction by avoiding consequences and change.
Why does denial feel safer than honesty?
Honesty requires change; denial avoids discomfort and fear.
What emotion often fuels cravings?
Anxiety, shame, sadness, anger, or fear.
One action that breaks isolation
Reaching out to a support person or attending a meeting.
Why is accountability important?
It keeps behaviors aligned with recovery goals.
“I deserve this after a hard day.”
This justifies use as a reward instead of addressing stress in healthy ways.
How does honesty disrupt addiction?
Addiction thrives in secrecy; honesty exposes it.
What’s a behavioral warning sign?
Isolating, skipping meetings, lying, irritability, avoiding responsibilities.
How does structure support recovery?
It reduces idle time and keeps people accountable.
How does shame keep addiction alive?
Shame drives secrecy, isolation, and relapse.
“I function better when I use.”
Short-term relief hides long-term harm to health, relationships, and judgment.
What truth threatens addiction the most?
I need help and cannot do this alone.
How do thoughts signal relapse?
Rationalizing, minimizing, fantasizing, or justifying use.
Why does reaching out help?
Support interrupts cravings and provides perspective.
What is the cost of dishonesty?
Lost trust, delayed healing, and continued addiction.
“I’ll deal with it later.”
Procrastination allows addiction to grow stronger and consequences to worsen.
Why does addiction rely on self-deception?
Self-deception protects the behavior and avoids consequences.
Why do triggers escalate when ignored?
Avoidance allows urges to grow stronger without being addressed.
How do boundaries protect recovery?
They reduce exposure to triggers and unhealthy relationships.
Why is recovery a daily choice?
Because behaviors, thoughts, and decisions must be chosen consistently.