Loimu, most of the people I told denied it, like your boyfriends. Only my parents and sister, boyfriend and one other friend know. I don't think anyone else would have to know. (Though in a brochure I got when I was diagnosed with bipolar said that it is important to have a support network )

My father still doesn't believe me - I've ended up in hospital twice in six months. But, he can take his time to accept my diagnosis. I can't waste my strength on things like that.

Of course a partner is allowed to know - especially if it is a serious relationship. So I guess that is also one factor that contributes to whether you should tell or not.

Loimu, I suspect that you live in Finland like me - please do correct me if I'm wrong, but it's just your username and you mentioning that in your country people are expected to be calm and reserved.. hehe, that's so Finland.

Anyway, I have heard that here in the north bipolar is getting quite common. The percentages are about 1-1.5%. Lately there has also been some stuff about mental health in the media, which I think helps because it shows that people are trying to understand these issues.

Maybe when you tell about your bipolar, you could try saying that it's nothing serious if you are taking your meds, but if not, your moods go out of whack. It's like diabetes - when they're taking their meds, they're fine, but when they aren't, they get symptoms.

My boyfriend found out by getting a call from my mom that I had been taken to the hospital due to a suicide attempt - not a very nice way to find out. So I hope when you do find a partner, you can tell them.

It's difficult if the person does not understand bipolar and/or has not heard much about it.. But you can always give them information and see if their attitude will change.

I'm sorry I couldn't offer better advice Loimu. Best of luck to you.

Katie