Yep, fellow addict here. Undiagnosed for many years but finally diagnosed bipolar in my early 30's (I'm 47 now). Can't kick the alcohol habit, been abusing alcohol for quite a number of years now. Started trying therapy, can't tell if it's helping any yet. I drink when depressed, when hypomanic, when mixed, when stable...I don't think there's an actual answer to your question.

I do take lithium...suicidal thoughts are gone as long as I'm compliant. I've attempted before, so this is very important to me. This is despite the fact that I have to take something for me thyroid, too...but what's one more pill?