AJ McLean admits he still relapses in his battle to stay sober.

The Backstreet Boys hitmaker -- who underwent his third stint in rehab last year to receive treatment for alcohol abuse --was pleased to avoid drinking when he married Rochelle Deanna Karidis last month because he always tries to put his new spouse's feelings first.

He admitted: "I relapse. I try to put Rochelle's feelings first. Is it really worth it to go out and get drunk and come home and deal with the repercussions? Now it's not. I'm not perfect, but I try every day to be sober and to be sober at my wedding is awesome. I was able to absorb it, even though it's kind of a blur."

AJ has "no idea" what Rochelle went through as she watched his drinking get out of control, but is thankful for her support, particularly as she quit alcohol to help him stay sober.

He said: "There was a long stint where I was out of control and I was getting worse. I have no idea what it's like to be on the receiving end. She's never picked up a drug in her life and, although she was never a big drinker, she's been sober for two years to be supportive.

Believe me, Rochelle has had ample opportunity to walk away."