I was with my first husband for 6 years (first dating, then 2 years of marriage) before I said enough was enough, and it was one of the best decisions I ever made. The debt that he created for us was mind-boggling, not to mention the lost jobs and addiction problems. I am now happily settled in with my husband of 7 years, a beautiful five-year-old daughter and a handsome four-year-old son. The years in this relationship have been a blessing...as long as I take the time to appreciate them.
My drinking did get very out of hand between those two relationships, as I didn't know how to transition back into the social scene. I wish you the best of luck, and don't drink, regardless of the threats or ups and downs. This is your life; make it the one you want.