My routine was to go home and slaughter a bottle of Stoli, chased by a few beers, and pass out by 8:30. This was a daily ritual. I spoke to no one and didn't leave the house. At the end, I was drinking to manage my withdrawal symptoms. Flying home from work to get that first pull on the bottle in the freezer.
AA really helps me because it forces me to engage the world in a new, healthy way. I won't belittle step work or sponsorship but, for me, the life saver is the fellowship. Loneliness is the killer, for me.