I think sometimes it takes a huge issue to make one stop an addiction and never go back. I really feel that support groups regardless of issue can help one stick to recovery. It is not a failure to get support but a strength. Also to help you see why you used drinking to cope or not with life. I feel that if people don't find out the reasons behind there addiction other issues or possible addictions or unhealthy ways of living will come into there life. Not for everyone but for many. I have many friends who suffered from eating disorder and then got well but became addicted to drugs. It was just switching issues cause the feelings and issues were still there.
I do agree though pain is a huge factor and health issues that don't go away that I didn't even do to myself as a factor to keeping me in recovery. The days I want to give in I just remind myself of the health issues I have and how they don't go away so doing more damage to myself won't help. Ok there is my long rant. Hang in there and as we say in the recovery world take one day at a time.