Is My Husband Addicted to…? Here’s How To Tell

When a woman finds out her husband has been lying, one question she usually asks is, “Is my husband addicted to…” Here’s what you really need to know.

Before reading on, did you know that the real issue may be emotional abuse? To test this theory, if your husband uses p***graphy, take this free emotional abuse quiz. See if you’re experiencing any of the 19 types of emotional abuse.

When My Husband Said He is Addicted To…

If you’ve just discovered your husband has been lying to you and he claims struggling with addiction, but it doesn’t feel right—trust your gut. The truth might not be about addiction at all. Often, the real issue is emotional and psychological abuse.

At Betrayal Trauma Recovery, we help women recognize the patterns of invisible abuse that hide behind lies. Here’s how to tell if your husband’s behavior is less about addiction and more about control and manipulation.

What You Need to Know About “Addiction” in Marriage

Addiction might seem like a reasonable explanation for your husband’s lies, but if your husband’s actions hurt your peace and confidence, it’s important to only focus on how they affect you. This shift will change everything.

If your husband repeatedly chooses behaviors that hurt you, it’s more than a personal struggle. It’s abuse.

Lies Aren’t Addiction—They’re Emotional and Psychological Abuse

If your husband says he’s lying because he’s an addict, ask yourself this question—does he take responsibility for the pain he’s caused? Or does he make excuses, shift blame, or manipulate you into feeling sorry for him?

Addiction doesn’t justify:

Lying about his whereabouts
Playing the victim, so you’ll feel sorry for him (when you’re the one who has been harmed)
Hiding money
Denying conversations or gaslighting you when you ask questions
Using phrases like “You’re too sensitive” or “You blow things out of proportion” to dismiss your concerns

These actions aren’t slips from an addict—they’re tactics abusers use to maintain control.

Addiction & Emotional Abuse

One common lie many women hear is that exploitative materials use is just a private problem or a personal addiction. But here’s the reality:

It Fuels Exploitation: Using materials that involve the abuse and exploitation of women and underage girls. Watching it creates demand for more harm.
Coercion In Marriage: When your husband lies about use, pressures you into uncomfortable situations, or refuses to be honest, he’s engaging in emotional and physical abuse.
It Breaks Marital Trust: Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship. Withholding the truth, managing secret habits, or blaming you for his choices destroys intimacy and care.

How to Protect Yourself From an “Addicted” Husband

If your husband’s actions have harmed you, the best step is to learn how to protect yourself from further harm. Here’s where to start: