Trach, I was quite active on SR about 2 1/2 years ago. I made some close friends. I then returned to drinking and pushed a lot of people away. However, now that I'm back and have resumed conversation with some, it's as if I never left.
Anonymity can help. I also think having an understanding of experiences creates a deep bond as well.
I have close friends in my life who are incredible. However, since they do not struggle with addiction (I was bright enough to pick friends who don't drink or use, lol), they don't fully understand. They are supportive of me and all that, but some of the nuances of recovery are so personal, they can only be shared with others who understand.
I mean, no one else besides a person with a drinking problem would understand how common it is to check the whites of eyes for yellowing or googling "Signs of liver failure"
