I used to hide my mental illness too. It was what I needed to do in a family who is afraid of mental illness. But recently I tried an experiment and just let my family have my bipolar, take it or leave it. Some did leave. That was excruciating, but some left and came back. I just started educating and re-educating with the facts about my illness. I was mortified by how prehistoric their ideas were, but they are learning. I still feel compelled to hide my symptoms. I just don't hide the fact that I am bipolar or why I am taking a sick day. (and missing a function)