I was wondering this myself.
Is it the Bipolar that causes me to drink when I am either manic or depressed?
Or am I an alcoholic?

I went to my pdoc and told her I think I've been manic and not right at all, so I've been self medicating with beer and have had thoughts of past drug use.
She said she couldn't change my meds and there's nothing she could do for me.
She gave me phone numbers for AA meetings and Drug Addiction couseling places.
I have to see her in 2 weeks to tell her what I decided to do.

I haven't drank in 5 days and I feel much better.