Bipolar disorder and alcoholism: Are they related?

Is there a connection between bipolar disorder and alcoholism?

- No name given / South Dakota

Answer

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by severe — even disabling — mood swings. Bipolar disorder and alcoholism often occur together. Although a genetic link is suspected, the connection between bipolar disorder and alcoholism hasn't been clearly established.

In some cases, bipolar disorder clearly develops before alcoholism. In turn, bipolar disorder may increase the risk of alcoholism or other forms of substance abuse. Likewise, symptoms of bipolar disorder may emerge during alcohol intoxication or withdrawal. In other cases, bipolar disorder is masked by alcoholism.

When bipolar disorder and alcoholism occur together, each can worsen the symptoms and severity of the other. In addition, alcohol or other substance abuse can complicate treatment for bipolar disorder, and vice versa.

A psychiatrist may use the term "dual diagnosis" when referring to a person who has both bipolar disorder and alcoholism. Treatment may require the expertise of psychiatrists and other mental health care providers who specialize in the treatment of dual disorders.

MORE ON THIS TOPIC

• Alcoholism

RELATED

• Bipolar disorder