As already said, progression is the key. Check out the stages of alcoholism and see if you can relate.
Period of comfort? This is one of the biggest lies alcohol tells us, IMHO. One of the hardest things to grasp is that comfort is fleeting--SOBRIETY REPLACES THAT COMFORT WITH CONTENTMENT.
Eustress will remain and unnecessary stress will not have the same effect on you.
You won't need to escape anything. Life is so rich sober, you want to just waller around in it!
Hope this helps!!!