I can relate to this. Drank heavily through my twenties. But I went sober for two years during which time I identified privately as an alcoholic and addict. I d

I can relate to this. Drank heavily through my twenties. But I went sober for two years during which time I identified privately as an alcoholic and addict. I did the emotional healing. I started to meditate daily and exercise and talk about my problems. I had to slowly learn who I was as I had drunkenly buried away and neglected so many aspects of myself. After those two years of cultivating a healthier life and mind I started to drink again. I can do so in moderation and with an awareness of why I’m doing it. The takeaway for me was that I wasn’t an addict or alcoholic, although they served as helpful labels while I grew and healed. I just hadn't taken the time with myself to figure out why I was unhappy and I was subsequently stuck in a feedback pattern of bad, unhealthy behaviour. Edit: Just wanted to add that I understand this isn’t everyone’s experience and sometimes moderation isn’t a possibility. Just sharing my experience.