I grew up in an abusive adoptive home and my saving grace was my next door neighbours whose daughter became my best friend. We became friends aged 5 years old, went on to have our sons in our early 20s. Long story short she had three difficult relationships, became depressed culminating in drinking herself to death over a period of 6 years. Even though we ended up losing touch the last few years because her last husband didn't like me because I was 'too independent', I always still considered her to be my best friend. It's been 3.5 years since she died but I just can't get over her death. I used to work in addiction treatment so I'm very familiar with the illness, but that almost makes me feel worse that I couldn't help her. When we were still in touch we talked every single day, several times a day and totally got each other. I just feel that my heart will never mend.