I think we all do. There's a stigma with mental illness on top of the anxiety that comes with the disease that really feeds into those feelings, but for me, it's gotten better with time. I definitely feel that way when my symptoms are out of control. I even get paranoid that the people I care about perceive me that way, but you have to remind yourself that it's not true. You wouldn't call a diabetic any of those things. It's hard to keep that in mind though because of BP's social aspect. Just remember, everyone's screwed up in their own way. At least we have a medical reason! Jk. In all seriousness, as long as you're doing your part to try to manage your illness, you have nothing to feel guilty about.

I would suggest setting up a good support system. That has been so helpful to me. They're supportive, but they also keep me accountable by letting me know when I'm not really being myself and when I'm getting to be too much. It's great when you're starting to get sick because a good support system can save you from yourself and warn you before you really become a burden to others. It sounds weird, but a good support system can keep you from becoming needy.