Great post and lots of good input.
I found that I began drinking when I was suffering deep depression. Instead of seeking counseling or medical help....I hid and sought a quick fix.
Over time the depression grew worse and the life I began leading added to it. I then suffered from anxiety and panic attacks.
Getting sober for me.....greatly reduced depression, anxiety became minimal and panic attacks ceased. I also was clear and focused to seek counseling for issues that I had never addressed and faced.
What ever works for you is my approach.