For recovering addicts, the thought of leaving a lifetime of addiction behind is no less than liberating and life-changing, yet most will also tell you that a big part of them also grieves the role played by addiction in their lives. An addiction to alcohol or drugs bears much in common with a dysfunctional or abusive romantic relationship: in the beginning it is all about the high, the thrill and excitement, but in no time at all, dependence takes over, bringing along feelings like shame, regret, and guilt.