Gabor Mate has said that the root of addiction is isolation. It’s a Western patriarchal delusion to think that solo spirituality, practiced by the “enlightened” few, is somehow superior to love, caring, community, acceptance. My rule is: if my inner child is frightened by something, it’s probably sketchy. Not that she runs the show, but it’s ok to want to feel safe. Addiction is incredibly painful but the most powerful helpers are addicts who have found recovery, and always within community. Blessings to you!