I drank for the relief it gave me. It solved all my difficulties of the day, in my mind....it was my solution. I wasn't physically addicted, I'm just an alcoholic.
Today, I found a new solution in the steps of AA. It's not always how much or how often an alcoholic drinks, it's the effect it produces.
If life is wonderful after you stay stopped, then alcohol was the problem. If you feel you "need" the drinking, then maybe you are the problem and alcohol was the solution.
Only you can decide.
Welcome to SR!