There is a common saying in circulation, particularly in law, which is that “the truth shall set you free.” Truth, though many would argue satirically that this is not the case, is what our justice system is based on. We spend our entire lives depending on various truths and the honesty of others. Every time we turn in an application with our social security number or give our credit card number over the phone, we are trusting others with very important information, that they will be honest with what we are trusting these individuals with. We expect honesty from others, but what about honesty with ourselves? In order for the truth to set you free, you have to be willing to admit the truth.

First, what is the truth setting you free from? The phrase came from the concept of guilt and shame one experiences when they have done something wrong. When he or she admits the truth, his or her guilt is lifted, thereby setting him or her free. Addiction can work in a very similar way. It’s hard to admit to an addiction, but when we finally are honest with ourselves, we can be set free from it.

The guilt and depression that can often be associated with addiction can feed addiction and make it worse and harder to break away from. This downward spiral can make addiction something that is relatively or seemingly impossible to escape from. The only way to break the debilitating cycle is to be honest with yourself, admit the truth and set yourself free. Addiction can only be beaten when you yourself are convinced that there is a problem. Only once you have been honest with yourself can you conquer addiction and truly be free from it.

Defeating denial can be a difficult thing, but once that is accomplished, the gates to beating addiction will finally be opened and the road to recovery is right around the corner.