[MargoMay32]

Hello, I just want some advice about if I should tell my roommates that I am bipolar and do have a bit of paranoia and are pretty sensitive, or if I should try and be present around them. There is a lot of factors going on right now. Like I feel that two of my roommates don't like me or don't want me around; but that could be my paranoia, I know I should ask them about this.

I used to have a pretty good support system when I was at home, but since I moved to go to school all those people are a pretty long ways away and I feel like I'm drowning over here. In the past week I've basically started stocking up on candy and pop so I can sugar comatose myself when they are home and I'm in my room.

Should I talk to them about all this?

[plumapplepear]

Originally Posted by MargoMay32

Hello, I just want some advice about if I should tell my roommates that I am bipolar and do have a bit of paranoia and are pretty sensitive, or if I should try and be present around them. There is a lot of factors going on right now. Like I feel that two of my roommates don't like me or don't want me around; but that could be my paranoia, I know I should ask them about this.

I used to have a pretty good support system when I was at home, but since I moved to go to school all those people are a pretty long ways away and I feel like I'm drowning over here. In the past week I've basically started stocking up on candy and pop so I can sugar comatose myself when they are home and I'm in my room.

Should I talk to them about all this?

Leaving support systems and being around brand new people would be hard on anyone. I would not share that you are bi-polar as this will just cause isolation for you. Maybe look outside the living situation campus health center for advice.

[manic most days]

agreed, people that don't know tend to judge harshly

[Clinte89]

I agree don't mention it because they may treat you differently or call you names and be mean. Like not meaning it be but joking and being mean that way. Just ask them why they don't like you I guess would be the best way to go.

[MargoMay32]

Thank you everyone

[Confusedinomicon]

Ask them if you did something to upset them. You dont need to tell them you are bipolar. Sometimes the best way to counteract paranoia is by talking to them and have them tell you that your fine. I have done this plenty of times because paranoia is a symptom I experience often.

[Passion222]

I never mention it because alot if people stereotype BP. I say I'm on the meds for fibromyalgia if I have to discuss meds with anyone. There's been some studies that fibromyalgia is helped by antidepressants so I use that. People usually go for that story. If you notice, you don't hear many people admit they're BP except in these forums or at a T.

[Faraway tree]

I beg to differ...

I told my brand new flatmatesroom who were both really nice about it. Turns out one has experienced depression and one has ibs. Now it's just a thing we openly talk about. I was really nervous though.

Also, unless our flatmates are awful people, in which case don't tell them, they will notice your ups and downs anyway, and might think you don't like them /are avoiding them.

Bipolars ok, I'm sure once ou explain how it affects you you will be set.

[venusss]

I wouldn't tell straight away. Wait till you get to know 'em better.

[faerie_moon_x]

I would wait to tell them. I'm guessing you are in a dorm or something similar so these people are assigned to you? If that is the case, I would wait. There are people who will understand and be good friends, but there are a lot of people who won't. Better to wait and see what type of peopel you're dealing with.

I say just be friendly and communicate your concerns to them without the bipolar part. Like others have said, ask if you've upset them. Remember there are some unreasonable people who have their own issues (mentally ill or not,) and I hope for the best for you.