Open-Label Depakote ER in Patients With Bipolar I or II Depression and Alcohol Abuse or Dependence

Inclusion Criteria: * MADRS \>= 20 at screen and 18 at baseline * YMRS =\< 11 at screen and baseline * DMS-IV criteria for past manic or hypomanic episode based on the SCID * DSM-VI criteria for alcohol dependence or abuse based on the SCID. * Alcohol dependence/abuse confirmed by corroboration from family member * Negative urine pregnancy test Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to give informed consent * Inability to give reliable assessment of alcohol consumption * Evidence of alcohol consumption one week prior to baseline * Liver function tests greater than 3X upper limit of normal at screen * History of active hepatitis or hepatic encephalopathy * History of pancreatitis * History of adverse reaction to divalproex sodium * History of seizure other than directly associated w/prior alcohol withdrawl * History of major head trauma with LOC \> 10 min. or skull fracture * Hisotry of hypertension or neurologic illness * If female, not practicing an effective form of birth control