I was wondering how you handle the misperceptions that people have about bipolar, especially when people know about your diagnosis before you tell them (through a friend or other family member, etc.)?

I find that it does bother me when someone approaches me with pity or even 'just wants to talk about mental health for no reason' or asks me if I am happy when I am having a good time. I don't feel the need to explain myself or discuss mental illness with them and although I move through the situation without incident, it still bothers me. And I might think about it later and I would rather not waste the energy.

Any advice or thoughts?