Many people start using alcohol or drugs after losing a loved one, a job, or a meaning in life. It seems like a temporary way to relieve pain, to distract themselves, to not think. But over time, this "distraction" turns into an addiction. A person avoids grief, does not experience it, but simply drowns out emotions. As a result, the pain does not disappear, but becomes even deeper. Real recovery is when you do not run away from pain, but allow yourself to feel it. Yes, it is difficult, it may be tears, panic, insomnia, but only this way relief comes.
https://unitedrecoveryproject.com/rehab-blog/addiction-as-grief-avoidance/ , support from loved ones, or just an honest conversation with yourself is the beginning of a path that truly heals, not masks.