In early recovery I used to think that my ex heavy drinking pals were just trying to pull me back down,some kind of conspiracy to keep me in misery. I learned through experience that is not true at all. Don’t get me wrong I knew the kind of guy who took pride in getting others wasted but most of them were just trying to have a laugh with like minded people, ie other drinkers.
I found out that my problem drinking is my problem, the other heavy drinkers didn’t want to stop, didn’t see it as a problem and were prepared to face any consequences or make lifestyle changes if necessary. Sure they might all be in denial but that’s what they believed. Point is if I think I’ve got a problem, I’ve git a problem but don’t expect others that follow a similar lifestyle to see it as a problem as it isn’t for them.
Hope that helps?