Yes, I’ve discussed my diagnosis with most of my friends. For some of them I had to explain it quite a bit — a lot of the pop culture understanding of bipolar disorder isn’t quite accurate — and others were already familiar with it. They generally were appreciative that I shared that information with them, and some of my close friends will check in on me if they notice warning signs of an episode, which is really helpful because I’m not always aware of it. – Louis, 20, Diagnosed at 13

I have always been open with my friends about my diagnosis. I have had some friends who didn’t understand what it is to have bipolar and made less than helpful comments when I was in an episode. However, I am also very lucky to have a lot of friends who are wonderful and accepting. I have friends who offer to come over with food to keep me company when I am depressed and who gently check in with me when I seem hypomanic/manic. My best friend also has bipolar and we take comfort in each other and know that together, we are free of judgment and can hold each other accountable. – Emily, 28, Diagnosed at 16

Yes, I have discussed my diagnosis with friends. Almost all were understanding. The few that weren’t are no longer my friends. A common reaction I saw was confusion. Bipolar is a complex condition, and I understand why it is difficult to understand. As time has passed, their confusion has turned to curiosity. I have been asked questions that I don’t know the answer to, but that’s okay with me. I love that I am able to communicate with them. – Olivia, 18, Diagnosed at 15

I talk about my diagnosis pretty openly with a small number of close friends, and they’re supportive without making a big deal out of it. Having this open line of communication already established makes it much easier to reach out when I need extra support, since there is less to explain at that point. It doesn’t change how they see me, and it’s nice to know that I have a support system of people that care and can understand me better through knowing this.  – Beck, 24, Diagnosed at 17

I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder at 12 years old and, at the time, it wasn’t commonly understood by my age group. This gave me the freedom to shape the narrative I hoped people would accept before they learned about it from stigmatized sources. I find that sharing your diagnosis in this way is helpful, as true friends will always accept you for who you are. Everyone with Bipolar Disorder is different, and this individuality can be beneficial. Open-minded friends will listen and allow themselves to be educated by you, which can strengthen your friendships. – Maya, 27, Diagnosed at age 12

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