another question

[curious]

I know that may be better placed on the health board, but since there are a lot of people here, I thought I could get a broader range of opinions, hope that is okay.
okay, question
I know that alcohol is a depressant (downer)however, how does it affect stress levels? Does it help to lower them, make it worse, does it depend on the person? Should it NOT be drunk when a person is stressed?

I am college (Masters), and when mid-terms and finals are on, it can be major stress, so I had wondered if a glass, the night before the test (or even a couple of hours before) would help, but would it make it worse? I'd rather not pop a valium or other such type of drug.

I DO want to be responsible, so before my hubby and I have any wine, we want to know how it will affect me.
Note: I am Bipolar II, but have been stable for two years, and am allowed to regulate my meds on my own as needed.

[joeyz6]

Bucko (an MD) will hopefully help you out, Curious, but just to give you my two cents, I would not drink alcohol the night before a test. I just got my bachelor's last year, and I definitely found that the best recipe for success on a test was to go to bed early, get a good night's sleep, and eat a complete breakfast.

When I was stressed I took a break from studying and went for a walk. I found that alcohol made it more difficult to concentrate on the studying.

[Thomas]

No medical advice from here either...just anecdotal...but when I am stressed, a glass or two of wine makes me relax...when I am sad or angry, a glass or two of wine lifts my spirit...when I am happy, a glass or two of wine makes me even happier...go figure!

[This message has been edited by foodie (edited 12-23-2002).]