It is thought 43 percent of individuals with bipolar disorder suffer from alcoholism at some point in their lives. It is also thought that up to 60 percent of bipolar individuals have a history of substance abuse at some point in their lives.
Although it's not fully understood why, bipolar disorder makes people more likely to use drugs and alcohol.
Bipolar disorder is a chronic illness and it’s my belief that sufferers self-medicate with alcohol or drugs to get away from the symptoms of bipolar.
They may self-medicate to get rid of the feelings of depression, anxiety, mania and intrusive thoughts. But the relief is short-lived.
You should not feel ashamed if you are using alcohol or illegal drugs but you should try and reach out for help from your gp, social worker, psychiatrist or community psychiatric nurse. If not try and contact the community alcohol unit if there is one near you or contact:
Alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk - Call 0800 917 7650 or email help@aamail.org
www.Samaritans.org - Call 116123 or email Jo@samaritans.org
Drinkaware.co.uk - Call 0300 123 1110
Talktofrank.com - Call 0300 1236600
Mind.org.uk - if you need help join one of their peer support groups.
Bipolaruk.org - Contact them if you need support from one of their peer support groups or use their eCommunity to gain support from people who have similar problems.
Remember its not your fault. Substance use is very common in bipolar disorder.
Drugs and alcohol often make the symptoms of bipolar disorder worse. Hangovers can cause depression. Try not to get drunk if you go out as you may regret what you have done on a night out, again this might contribute to anxiety and depression the next day. Cannabis, although relatively common, can lead to drug induced psychosis if used a lot. It can also bring on mania due to the euphoria it creates.
You can now buy non-alcoholic beer and gin which I would really recommend. You can drink as much as you want! Some e-cigarette devices can be used which might mimic the 'draw' from a cannabis joint. I would recommend switching to an e-cigarette if you can.
Best wishes