It's completely understandable that you may feel uncomfortable discussing your bipolar disorder and medications due to the stigma surrounding mental health. You have the right to privacy, and it's essential to handle such situations in a way that feels comfortable for you. Here are some strategies you can consider:
Be Brief and Vague: You can respond with a simple and vague answer, such as, "They're just some medications I need to take." This response doesn't reveal much information and may discourage further probing.
Divert the Conversation: Politely shift the focus of the conversation to a different topic. For example, you could say, "Oh, speaking of college, have you decided on your major yet?" This helps change the subject and redirects attention away from your medications.
Humor: Humor can be an effective way to defuse uncomfortable situations. You could respond with a light-hearted comment like, "These are my magic pills that make me an awesome college student!" Keep it lighthearted and fun to discourage further questioning.
Deflect with General Information: If you're comfortable sharing some general information about mental health without disclosing your personal situation, you could say something like, "They're for a health condition, nothing serious, just like any other medication."
Set Boundaries: It's okay to set boundaries and politely decline to discuss personal medical matters. You can say something like, "I'd rather not get into the details, but thank you for asking."
Trustworthy Friends: If you do find someone you feel comfortable opening up to, you can choose to share your experiences with them on your terms. Make sure it's someone you trust and who has shown understanding and empathy towards mental health.
Remember that you don't owe anyone an explanation about your medical condition, and it's entirely up to you how much or how little you want to share with others. Prioritize your well-being and focus on surrounding yourself with supportive individuals who respect your boundaries. College can be a great opportunity to meet like-minded people, including those who are understanding and accepting of mental health challenges. If you encounter negative attitudes, remember that it says more about their lack of awareness than anything about you. Don't hesitate to seek support from counseling services at your college if you ever feel overwhelmed or need someone to talk to.