Berly & jaxter, I'm so glad you both found PC. My experience in the four or so yrs since being diagnosed closely parallels lads. I too am an alcoholic, tho, & I'm happy/relieved to tell you that I've been back in AA & sober with no real difficulty since getting my bipolar meds worked out. Since quitting thru AA in 1981, I've gone back to drinking briefly twice in what I now recognize as hypomanic periods triggered probably by antidepressants.

All in all, I'd have to say that being diagnosed bipolar II was the best thing to happen to me after quitting drinking thru AA. It was the completion of the sobriety process. Without the bipolar meds and therapy, I wasn't able to get all the way here--and stay here. Life's much better on this side of the deep, dark pit.

AniManiac has as much knowledge/experience as anyone here. She among my most respected mentors. You have a wonderful resource there.

What a great position you're in. If I can help any, let me know! I'm a big fan of everyone wanting to quit.