I don’t lie about debt to my partner. I think that one of the main things about an honest relationship is transparency, and it is an important feature to maintain a healthy relationship.
I have seen in the past, with firsthand experience, how debt can affect families. My Dad suffered greatly with debt when he was in his mid-forties and he almost had his house reclaimed due to a mortgage he really couldn’t afford to pay off. He eventually shared his problems with the rest of us, and we were able to help him.
It increased family tensions, and I would not wish to put my family through similar circumstances which is why I think honestly is essential in any relationship.
I have, of course, had debt problems and sharing them with my partner really relieves the weight that the debt carries. If I had them bottled up I would not know how to cope.