This is a bit rambling so, apologies...

Like you, I've also lived 40+ years and it's easy to forget the good, hard-won experience that we have. Having bipolar and/or alcoholism does not negate that experience. We've all lived and loved and strived and just happen to have stumbled of late. Give yourself some credit. If there ever was a time to put aside your fears, pride, whatever, now is the time. Get over that first hurdle and the rest is easy. You might talk to your therapist about getting on some meds to curb your alcohol craving. If she is not a doc, get a referral.

I recommend you do your homework first, get online and go to the doc with a few meds in mind (I definitely recommend you try baclofen) That way, he knows you're serious and will be more likely to help you. Personally, i would try an eliminate alcohol from the equation and then deal with your bi-polarism. A lot will depend on what your therapist has in mind. Be open and clear with her/him; there's no point in hiding anything at this stage. Like I mentioned, why not treat all this as an experiment? A little of this, a little of that, maybe with some hard work thrown in you can get your life back. That's what I'm trying to do. We've still got a lot of living to do,right?

Your truck reminds me of that old joke about the Texan and the Oklahoman bragging to each other about the size of their respective ranches. The Texan says, "My spread is so damned wide, it takes me pretty near a day and a half to drive across it." To which the Oklahoman replies, "I had me a truck like that once."

Don't delude yourself. In no way am I strong; I have my moments when I feel capable of supporting others but obviously I'm on this forum for some info, some support, some curiousity, probably a lot like you. I think that's the beauty of this forum. It's basically a virtual AA meeting or NA meeting or what have you. Take what you want from it, leave the rest behind, no one will be offended. You have to look out for number one. Make no mistake, I feel better to be able to help in any small way I can. My last trip to the bar, all I saw was misery; I want to spread the word that we don't have to suffer.

Keep on trucking.

I Googled "AA meetings Chalmette" and found this, though you prob. know about it already:

Saint Bernard Behavioral Health Center
(504) 278-7401
8101 West Judge Perez Drive
Chalmette, LA

Peace to you.