Maybe it is talking himself into relapse. Not good enough to get well, I am bad, so what is the use.
Does he go to AA? How often? I am one that believes in 90 meetings in 90 days. That way they hear from many different people, and can pick a sponser. (does he have a sponser??).
I would not be concerned untill after he does his 4th and 5th step.
If he doesn't go to AA, skip that part.
Just my thought.