How to Discuss a Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis with Friends and Family

Telling friends and family about a diagnosis of bipolar disorder can be rough, but some of your friends and family members probably need to know. My family was always aware of my diagnosis, but I have had to tell friends and extended family members. I have also had to deal with the mixed reactions. However, I have learned a better way to break the news, and here is a guide on how to tell your family members and friends about your bipolar disorder diagnosis.

First of all, do not feel obligated to tell everyone that you know. This is a personal matter, so it should be kept within personal social contacts. Even within your family, feel free to use your own discretion when choosing which family members to tell.

Become as knowledgeable as possible about bipolar disorder. If your friend or family member asks you a reasonable question, you should have some sort of answer for them. Having this sort of knowledge can put your loved ones at ease, so prepare to hit the books and do some research.

Do not just come out with "I have bipolar disorder" in the middle of the supermarket. There is an appropriate time, place, and method for telling your friend or family member. First of all, someplace that is quiet and private (such as the home) is ideal for this type of revelation. Also, avoid all holidays, birthdays, special occasions, and other events that you feel would serve as an adequate distraction. Those are not appropriate times.

There is also an appropriate way to tell friends and family members that you have bipolar disorder. As previously stated, just coming out with it is not appropriate. Build up to the matter without beating around the bush. An appropriate preparation should ease the blow for family members and friends that you do not expect to react well, and it also helps those that will cope well.

Let your loved ones review your research and ask more questions. Present the documentation that does not include overly wordy descriptions and medical jargon. Then, let your loved ones confirm what they have learned through conversing with you and asking questions.

Using this method, family members and friends tend to react favorably towards discussion of a bipolar disorder diagnosis. I have started implementing the process when breaking the news to others, and I have had complete success with it.