I actually prefer not discussing my diagnosis because some doctors have reduced me to my dx. They don't listen to me because they already think I'' one thing. Also, I have met people in my psych ward travels that collect dx like badges of honor so they can prove that they are the most messed up. Mostly among the teens but I saw some adults do it too. Like at one point I was borderline, bipolar 2, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, anorexia, etc but ideal like all of those things may be manifestations of the singular illness of bp2. Although I am still struggling to admit that it may be a real illness I must contend with.

I know drs should tell people so they can learn about it but maybe some don't want the patient to take on the illness as their only identity.