It's good that you think about this question. There may be people in your life that you want to tell and others that you feel more comfortable not sharing with. It's hard to go it alone, but you don't need to tell everyone. At one time in my life I told only a few friends and family members. Now I am more public about my diagnosis. I didn't go from telling few people to telling most people overnight. I had to learn more about myself and the illness first.

If you decide to tell others, practice telling pieces of your story to your therapist and then to a close friend or relative. You can sometimes gauge whether that person will be helpful if, before telling them about your diagnosis, you have a general conversation about what they think about depression or bipolar disorder. Make sure you are in a safe and confidential situation before you share your diagnosis with anyone.

Telling people at work or an employer is a different animal. If you choose to do this, make certain you take care to protect your rights.

I agree that you should not feel guilty about an illness such as bipolar disorder. And not feeling guilty doesn't mean you have to tell everyone about your diagnosis. What to tell whom is a question that each of us can answer in the way we feel comfortable.

DocJane www.BeyondBipolar.com

Hi Karol,  May I ask, why do you think you should keep your Bipolar quiet from everyone?

You have nothing to be ashamed of.   If you feel more comfortable and want the anonimity, you can always talk about your Bipolar here online. I think you will be quite amazed as to the people who feel the same way you do. 

If you'd like to discuss your Bipolar, I will be here for you..please feel free to write.

Rosanne