Stability doesn't seem to help my alcoholism

[BirdDancer]

I recently started controlled drinking. My hope was that stability (I'm bipolar) would allow me to drink reasonably. Unfortunately, it has definitely been the opposite. I'm beginning to believe that maybe I am an alcoholic.

I have attempted to quit alcohol for the last year now, but always relapsed after about a month or less. I am wondering if I will ever be able to reach 90 days.

I'm taking Lamictal, Risperdal and Cymbalta and after I get drunk, I seem to have major memory problems for up to a week afterwards. Since I have started to get drunk at least 3 times per week, I seem to have the memory problems all the time. I'm wondering if the medicine/alcohol combination is the culprit.

[symposium]

Alcohol makes you forget things anyways, especially if you binge drink. Include meds into the mix and you're definitely going to have some memory loss.

One thing that definitely helps me when I want to control my drinking is to have someone keep me accountable. I can't trust myself because I'll just want to drink until I can't anymore. So having someone (a friend or loved one) by your side to say "Hey, that's enough" or even to take the drink away from you can help immensely.

It really puts things into perspective. At least it does for me.

Good luck.

Heather

[laurie6781]

Welcome to SR Bird Dancer you have found a great site, with lots of Experience, Strength, and Hope (ES&H) to carry with you on your journey.

I'm wondering if the medicine/alcohol combination is the culprit.

In all likelihood YES.

Alcohol should be avoided when on any medication and especially when taking meds for bi polar or chronic depression.

I'm beginning to believe that maybe I am an alcoholic.

Only you can decide if in fact you are an alcoholic. I would suggest trying some AA meetings and listening for identification. If you listen and look for the "simiarities" rather than the differences it will help you in your decision.

Just as a side note, the first 6 months I went to AA meetings, I really knew nothing about the 12 step program that they adhere to, I just felt SAFE in the AA meetings. These were people that had been where I was. Give it a try. It might just give you some of the peace and sernity you are searching for!

Please keep posting and let us know how you are doing, we do care.

Love and hugs,

[reader]

Hi, How has ur experience with risperdal been? My son gained 52 lbs in a few months and had to be taking off it. I believe none of the meds should be mixed with alcohol but I am sure you know that.

[Bozo]

Im not sure if you posted here before but I would like to welcome you to the SR Mental Health forums. Laurie said it best when we can only offer our ES&H. I am addicted to everything that numbs me emotionally. For some reason, I fear my own emotions. (I think it is called growing up as well.)

Anyhow, I have to get ready for Easter Sunday. Have you ever gone to an AA meeting? Mike

[Zencat]

Hi BirdDancer

Originally Posted by BirdDancer

I'm wondering if the medicine/alcohol combination is the culprit.

I know it was a big problem for me. My Dr. told me that I was turning my meds to muck and my liver was being damaged at an accelerated rate.

If you think you have a drinking problem, do consider treatment. I went to my local Mental Health Department and got into a program they offered. They were skilled at handling duel disorders and have helped me significantly.

Zencat