A question about Alcohol consumption and substance use

Im really not sure how to word this in a way that gets my point across. But whenever I drink alcohol, or indulge (formerly) in any other substance such as weed, I’m always on this chase for some kind of high or as they say “chasing the dragon”. A high that makes me feel like I’m in a completely different state of mind from when I’m sober.

Honestly, I’m not 100% sure how to describe this feeling but I was just curious if other people also get this feeling when taking something that makes them feel ‘different’…

Is it some form of addiction? Lack of self control? Or just a feeling of trying to escape a sober state of mind? Of course it varies from person to person.

PSA: I am drunk right now so I apologize if I sound incoherent.

Thanks!