Like many things in life "it depends".
If you really are manic, can't sleep, are irritable, racing thoughts, then the last thing you want is an anti-depressant.
Others have responded in the vein that there is probably too much faith in drugs these days, placed by those who seek happiness out of a bottle. The drug companies, in my opinion, have a lot to answer for in their advertizing of these products.
If you have severe ups and downs then you should seek medical attention. I have been hospitalised three times for mania, with intervening periods of several years. My depression has been less significant. There are basically two drugs used for manic depression, lithium and valproate. I take valproate daily. The only thing I've noticed is that I had started to have panic attacks, which are associated with depression, and since taking the pills I no longer have them.
One thing to be aware of is that in a manic state it is not uncommon to make rash exorbitant expenditures. If you are doing this then you need to get immediate help.
I am familiar with the alcohol self medication. Winston Churchill is a famous example of someone who functioned quite well with the disorder and this self medication.
Finally its not gambling that makes you manic but it could be an outlet you use during your heightened state.
