Interesting questions....
As for why alcoholism is different than other addictions.....your addiction counselor is a better resource than I can be.
Congratulations on stopping your other addictions...
After being diagnosed with situational depression in '84 I decided to quit
drinking alcohol and joined AA.
I did not work the AA structured program nor did I make lifestyle changes.
I continued to drink ...off and on...for 4 years.
Then I read a book..." Under The Influence" by Milam & Ketcham.
That explained to me that my body was no longer processing
alcohol correctly. Zap! Eureka! Egad!
I took that info...made many changes ...re committmed to God and AA.
I've not had another drink. So Yes...AA is a vital part of my recovery.
Why do I still attend meetings and use the AA steps?
I want to share the joy and it gives me a purpose.
No I will not drink again if I give up AA
but why in the world would I want to?
Thanks for asking....all my best