The first thing you must do is receive a proper diagnosis. Once a proper diagnosis has been made, then focus on the course of treatment, hopefully one including psychotherapy as well as medication.

Second, you must accept the diagnosis yourself. This is a critical part of healing that cannot be skipped.

Third, there is no rule saying that you must disclose your illness to anyone, even someone as close to you as your parents. Who cares what people think (I used to worry about this obsessively also but have gotten better lately). If you feel that you need someone to talk to besides your doctor or your therapist, then you could always avail yourself of a bipolar support group in your area. I have recently done this and have enjoyed it so far.

Fourth, I have found it valuable to me to nurture my spiritual side through frequent church attendance, prayer, and Confession. This helps me to put things in the proper perspective where I can deal with them more effectively.

Good luck. I know that if you are persistent in battling this disease, you will find better days ahead. I hope I have been of some help.