Quote:
Originally Posted by Lunatyc
I am fine with my diagnosis of bipolar, I won't contest it. I want to ask other members on the forum about disclosing to people about having bipolar.
When I was first in rehab years ago, I tried to run away from it and keep it a secret and not tell anyone and not talk about it. I have found that some people believe that bipolar is a personality flaw. I have even found that some people think it is similar to having a split personality! Like a person has a dual side to them. That is unbelievable and could not be further from the truth. I don't have any issues with moods now. I never had the rapid cycling or mixed states. I did get slightly hyper back in childhood and teens at times but the under current of depression was hardest to conquer. I don't get symptoms now.
So I find myself saying, if I have to, that I was in rehab for depression and alcohol dependency/misuse/addiction.
If I join a group, do a course or anything in general , should I say from the off set I have bipolar or play it down until I am sure with my default - it was alcohol and depression?
People say that alcohol is a depressant so I would get scrutiny for saying that, straight away. Maybe my best bet would be to say, that the reasons I was admitted to rehab, were to do with having a meltdown and clinical depression. I don't have to be a complete open book from the offset right?
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Everyone should make such decisions based on their own needs and situations, I think. I can only contribute what I feel is best for me.
I think that other than the closest people in our lives (spouse, possible fiancé, maybe parent, and children) there is no need to volunteer health information to anyone, unless the illness is currently affecting your life to a degree where understanding/accommodations are necessary. In the case of an employer, a note from a doctor that you are unwell (need not even say how) can be suffient, if medical leave or accommodations are necessary. As for friends, I think it depends on if you can trust them or if devulging your health issues explains otherwise problematic behavior in the relationship.
I often wonder why people divulge mental illness to some people when otherwise it is not a current struggle. Yes, I understand wanting to fight stigma and educate, but many don't go around telling people they have heart issues, diabetes, or an STD unless it is necessary.