When that happens, we no longer feel empty and afraid. We have no need to use people and things to feel good and to numb our pain. We don't need to protect ourselves. I have seen the effect of Real Love many times. Fear and anger vanish.
People feel peaceful and happy.
They learn to love their spouses, children, and friends. Love really is the answer. Addressing addiction without understanding the importance of unconditional love is utterly futile, like approaching the problem of drought without talking about water.