I'm a queer woman; I've known that I was attracted to women since I was 13, but I didn't accept it until I was 16, and I didn't come out to my parents until a few months ago, at 21! It's a process, but coming out is, in my opinion, a risk worth taking. It's liberating to know that, when my parents say they love me, I know that they mean the "real" me, not a fake mask I hide behind.

I found that coming out as bi was easier for me, because I already had practice from when I told my parents I had been dx'd with bipolar. In fact, coming out as bipolar was a scarier process for me than coming out as bisexual! Your parents have already dealt with learning that you are not who they thought you were when they found out you suffer from bipolar, and they still love you and accept you. That is encouraging.

Before you come out, though, it's best to be fully accepting of yourself. Remember that being gay is natural. I highly recommend the facebook page "have a gay day". They post a lot of really encouraging, positive, supportive stuff concerning sexual orientation. You don't have to "like" the page; you can just visit it and see all the content.

It can also help to tell a friend who you know will be accepting before telling your parents. That way, if your parents really freak out, you will have your friend to support you through the difficult time.

Good luck, and lots of hugs and support!