I have had problems with lying since I was in elementary school. It started as a way to get out of trouble, prolong any punishment my parents might dish out, stuff like that. It then turned it white lies and stupid things I would say in High School to make myself sound cooler.

Im 21 now, and I just ruined a relationship with a girl that I was building for a while because of my lying. She cared about me, and knew I needed help, and pushed me to get it. It turned into me telling her that I had actually gone to a doctor and gotten medication, when i had not. She found out in October, and hasnt spoken to me since.

I dont want to be doing this, its hurting me. Ive lost jobs, ruined relationships, and I dont think I can succeed in life if I dont solve this. What do I do?

My parents are willing to help me and ask what I want to do, but I genuinely dont know. They recommend inpatient therapy, and now we are researching it. Its not something that I want to do, but I think it might be good in the long run. I currently dont have a job and dont go to school, but I want to start a career as an electrician because trades are a great career. Should I do the inpatient therapy, then start that path, or can I do both at the same time.

Thanks for all the help