Bipolar disorder and alcohol: Could even a little drinking make symptoms worse? 🍷

Hello everyone, how are you doing?

Managing bipolar disorder is complicated enough, but a recent study sheds light on how even small increases in alcohol consumption can have long-lasting effects on mood and functioning, leading to more severe symptoms over the following six months. The effects were even more pronounced in those with bipolar II disorder. Contrary to the common belief of “self-medication,” this research suggests that alcohol use can worsen depressive or manic symptoms, even if it’s not at problematic levels.

How does this finding resonate with your experience? Have you noticed alcohol affecting your mood or functioning? Do you abstain completely, and have any strategies that help you navigate social settings or situations involving alcohol?

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Let’s explore this important topic and support each other in finding the best approaches to manage both bipolar disorder and alcohol use.

Looking forward to your insights!

Take care,
Somya from the Carenity Team 🌼

Source: Sperry, S. H., Stromberg, A. R., Murphy, V. A., Lasagna, C. A., McInnis, M. G., Menkes, M. W., Yocum, A. K., & Tso, I. F. (2024). Longitudinal Interplay Between Alcohol Use, Mood, and Functioning in Bipolar Spectrum Disorders. JAMA Network Open, 7(6), e2415295–e2415295.