I think I was an undiagnosed bipolar who just happened to have a major drinking problem. I quit 24 years ago and I believe it clarified the diagnosis, even though I wasn't seeking one at the time. In fact, I wasn't diagnosed until the age of 53, and when I finally was it made all kinds of sense. I could see the patterns my drinking followed...when I was depressed, I drank to drown my sorrows, and when I was manic I drank either to extend the high, or to mellow out...it depended on the circumstances.

At any rate, I am bipolar and alcoholic, like many others.