Giving an addict a hit also reduces anxiety.

This was literally my first thought

Exactly. The problem is timescale - short-term calming effect -> long-term increase in baseline anxiety and craving. And thus the cycle repeats.

All these cruel supportive comments feeding your addiction.

beautifully said :)

Bingo!!

I mean it’s the same with most ads, creating an anxiety that can only be assuaged by buying the actual product.