I find the general public is not that educated about bipolar & WILL freak out (think you are dangerous, etc.) & avoid you or fear you or watch you intently to see if you are displaying symptoms.

I haven't told anyone else in my family except my kids (grown now) & husband who have seen me struggle 1st hand & are relieved that the treatment I am being given works MOST of the time.

I vote for not disclosing until you know they are open to learning about the disorder or already are enlightened.

I have had to tell family members I've had some "bouts of depression" which seems to be much more acceptable than being dxed with bipolar.--Suzy