I used to have a bit of an issue with referring to myself as an addict but now I actually kinda wear it as a badge of honour. When people I know well ask why I don't drink I say it's because I am a recovering addict. There's not much stigma on the addict/alcoholic labelling now as there used to be. Chances are someone you know has someone they know that is an addict/alcoholic. Or at least I have found that to be the case.