So I’m hitting about 2 weeks of sobriety, and damn, I cannot describe how much it has helped me.
I’m less anxious. I have more energy that’s not like “woo hoo, electricity through my skin, let’s do ALL the things and let’s be NAKED”. Not feeling depressed either. It’s like an even state. 
I haven’t had enough time to see how it has affected me throughout my entire bipolar cycle. But so far, I’m really enjoying my mental state. 

Not being a temperance lecture. I just wanted to share something that has significantly helped my illness. Addiction and bipolar disorder are closely entwined due to impulsivity. If you’re even considering giving up drinking or drugs, just give it a try.

I know all of us are different and all require different strategies. But this is what has specifically worked for me. 

(P.S I’ve lost 6lbs of water weight, EVEN on seroquel) 

Diagnosed with Bipolar 1 and Anxiety
Giving up: Alcohol and weed
Drug cocktail: buspirone, seroquel, lamictal and Naltraxone (for a month to help with the alcohol cravings)