Well, my parents, a handful of my closest friends, my boyfriend, and his family knows. I would've preferred if his family didn't know, but he was new to this sort of thing and thought that (with my very hesitant permission) telling them would help them understand. As usual, it didn't. It just gives them a reason for disregarding my thoughts and opinions.

My older brother doesn't even know, but then again we're ten years apart and see each other once a year, if that.

I'm thankful for my friends and my boyfriend because although my boyfriend is fairly new (we will have been dating for a year the fourth of next month) he is extremely supportive and understanding. My friends that have known me for much longer just kind of shrugged when I told them my diagnosis and said, "To us, you've always been you." Which was a lot more comforting than I thought it would be. They know I take meds and are all pretty divided on the subject, although a lot of them agree that I've always seemed happier when I'm on them.

Even with all this support, it can be tough. I don't feel comfortable having them around during my manic episodes. My boyfriend insists on being there for me to make sure I don't hurt myself; otherwise, I would require total isolation. My parents are slowly working their way towards supporting me ever since I've tried to be honest about whatever's on my mind and I've been trying very hard over the years to get them to understand my point of view.

Sorry this was so long, I guess I needed to vent. I feel much better now.