Bizi, I used to drink more than I should for various reasons. I definately used it to self medicate. When I stopped a few years ago, things got better in some ways and worse in others. I think drinking contributed greatly to my hypomanic symptoms. I didn't drink a ton, but enough to effect my mood.

Please be sure to tell your doctor about taking the over the counter lithium. I don't know enough about it to determine it's safety but I remember being warned not to take it by someone (a doctor, friend, person on the internet...not sure) since lithium can be toxic in different amounts for different people and since blood levels need to be monitored when taking the prescribed version, just be safe and let them know you're trying it.

I can't say if you are manic or not. It does seem your symptoms are bothering you and that is reason enough to be concerned and discuss it with a doctor.

Food is very expensive and eating healthy can really drain a bank account. Especially when buying convenient versions of healthy foods. Overall it sounds like you make good financial decisions and are in a healthy place where money is concerned. Feel proud of that as it's more than many of us can claim.

Keep us posted on how you are doing and how the lithium orate works.