Yes it is extremely difficult to get started. I am only 7 months sober and joined SR in 2014 so it took me that long.
It is also hard to maintain, but lots of people do. I remember a particularly difficult time around the 3 month mark but ploughed on as I was scared to go back to exactly what you describe above.
I still have thoughts of drinking to oblivion, if I could just once and walk away, who knows but I can't. I would want it all day everyday again. So I don't have it.
Do I have a better life? Short answer yes. Although I am not running along green meadows with the wind in my hair singing with joy. I am dealing with life on an even keel, difficult times an all.