I also just got diagnosed with bipolar and have been using alcohol to cope with my symptoms. I think a lot of what was said here is very true. I'm still having a hard time adjusting to the reality and I'm still trying to find the right meds to help me out. Everyone has good days and bad days and in all honesty I've discovered you really have to focus on the good days and try and pull yourself out when you have a bad day. I've been tearing my family apart as well and really need some answers. It just takes time to learn to manage I think. I'm only a few months into treatment, but I've been going to see a therapist and it really helps and friends help too! And this place seems to be a really good place to find advice, even if you just read through some of the threads. Good luck!!!