Dependence

An addict is one who is dependent upon something outside of himself to feel good.

Does that mean that people whose happiness depends upon things like social acceptance, financial stability, whether or not they're in a relationship, etc. are also addicts?

I don't know. But what I do know is that - for this alcoholic - I am only truly free from my addiction when I am also free from ALL other forms of emotional dependence. As long as I NEED something to feel okay - whether it be a pat on the back or that first cigarette in the morning - then I'm still only a few disappointments away from a drink.