A coincident and not sure what to do.

One of my friend introduced to me to a guy in his early 30s through our love for music. So we went on a karaoke session and talked about music and more. But then as we were having dinner, the guy(lets name him M), confessed that he is living with schizoaffective disorder and how he was dx with it. I was surprised M was being forward with such a sensitive topic in just a first meet up. Plus, I was unsure if I should be confessing to him too. I did not reveal my secret at the end and had to pretend that whatever he said, I heard them for the first time.

Before we left, he took down my email and then sent me his small biography kind of story to read. I read it and realized that he experienced many unfortunate things like us due to his disorder. I just wish I could reveal to him how much I can relate. Problem is, I don't know him that well and I'm afraid things might be weird or go wrong between us.

So if you were in my shoe, what would you do? Do you think it is alright to reveal my mental illness to him?

I don't know what the answer to your dilemma is, but I know how much it would mean to me finding someone who understands the struggles and how life is for people dealing with mental illness and disorders. It would be life changing to me.

I would tell him, maybe later on because the affective part of schizoaffective disorder is very simular to bipolar.

Nope. You just met this guy; listen to him and be his friend and empathize with his struggles as only all of us can, but don't let your guard down yet; you don't really know him and your own mental health status can be used against you.

How 'bout "I have mental health issues too" and leave it at that? That way it can be anything from anxiety to bipolar to depression.

I agree.with this, say that for now.amd then see how things go, and later down the road if you feel comfortable enough you then can reveal your actual diagnosis.

Thanks all! I was really conflicted as I want to share my MI with somebody but he is just a stranger. But now I know what to do. So yeah, I won't reveal to him just yet. I try to get his trust in line, be a good friend and then tell him.