Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Bipolar disorder is not just a single disorder, but a category of mood disorders marked by periods of abnormally high energy and euphoria, often accompanied by bouts of clinical depression. This is the place to talk about your experience with bipolar disorder, learn from others' experiences, and find support.

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How to tell my dad

BriaLeCiriox
BriaLeCiriox
I just told my mom in person today that I am bipolar. She is still processing it, and is on the way back home to my dad (she lives 3 hours away). I did not think it was fair to her to have to tell him, so I will be calling my dad soon to know about my diagnosis. Previously he has not been supportive when they thought I was chronically depressed. I have to tell him, or my mom will.

Any advice on how to tell my dad about my diagnosis? He does not believe in therapy, psychology, or psychiatrists. He knows that bipolar exists, but may think I am making it up. Help! Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!
crzynanna
crzynanna
Hi! I have been diagnosed Bipolar for just over 5 years but have had it all my life. I just found out that my parents have thought all this time that the doctors have me "talked into" thinking that I am. I guess they don't believe in it either.
All I can say is just be honest and hope they will support you. Mine have for the past 5 years even though they didn't believe it. My hope is they won't stop you from getting your treatments, even if they are not supportive.
Just be as open and honest as you can. Good Luck!
SensitiveHoboLady
SensitiveHoboLady
Just be honest! Sometimes parents are skeptical of the diagnosis...I think it's common. There are support groups out there (and right here!) to locate others who understand things from their own perspectives. I hope things go okay for you...
spacekat
spacekat
I agree with Sensitive! Be yourself and be honest. It might be hard for your dad to understand, but maybe give him time. If he's supportive of you, that's what really counts. Whether he thinks it's a "true" diagnosis or not, his support is what you need. And, like I tend to think sometimes when I'm in a good frame of mind, if you tell him, and he dismisses you, it's his loss, not yours. Good luck! I hope everything works itself out. ((((HUGS))))
spacekat
spacekat
I wanted to add: I didn't tell my dad and he found out some round-a-bout way. When my stepmother asked me how I was, there was a sense of desperation in her voice - like I was teeter-tottering on the edge of some cliff. I was taken aback - good to be the one to share!
dancingd
dancingd
Just be straight with your Dad.

Ask him if he'd like any info on Bipolar that might help him to understand the disorder more easily .

You can only do what you can do......many times it takes loved ones a long time { if ever } to accept the DX.

Wishing you luck

A good book to share

Bipolar For Dummy's
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