Ya'll have some great insights. And of course it's a personal matter that only the individual should decide whether or not to share with whomever, but the reason I'm so adamant about letting "normal" people know that we're among them is so they can understand that we're not all living our lives being heavily sedated in a lock-down psyche ward. It's those damaging stereotypes which are injurious to us.

I hid my bipolar disorder for years, until I got in HUGE TROUBLE with the law. I was in a state of full blown manic-psychosis when the incidents occurred. At that point, I couldn't keep it a secret anymore, and the jury heard it all (verdict: not guilty by reason of insanity). After leaving the court, I swore that everyone I know, who could possibly be affected by my illness, should know in advance. Many were relieved and pleased to hear the truth.

THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE.