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[quote=Anonymous]OP,  I live with bipolar disorder and I was a nanny for many years. As you see from the replies ,and I'm sure you from your life the response you get to disclosing our illness is varied.
The choice to disclose is up to you, but before you do so you should think long and hard about why you want to and maybe talk it over with therapist.
Bipolar is nothing to be ashamed of but once it's out there it is out there unfortunately there is still much stigma in our society about bipolar and you may not get the response you want.
In my professional career I disclosed twice
Once when a teen I cared for was diagnosed with the disorder. In that case the response was positive it was a comfort to the teen and the parents to know someone  that was an adult living with the disorder and living a "normal life"

The second disclosure was to a nanny friend I had this was in late 2012 around the time that nanny murdered her charges in New York and New town so fears surrounding mental illness where at an all time high. Well this nanny went behind my back and told my employers she felt it was her duty for the safety of the children. I was let go. At this point I had been with the family for 2 years and just received an excellent review but MB said she couldn't take chances. So that was that it hurt at the time but I went on to find another job  that was wonderful.
Which brings me to my final point , you need to be honest with yourself as ,you and I know bipolar is a draining disease and the work of a nanny takes a lot out of you.
Are you up to it? Something to talk about with your therapist.
People with bipolar can and do make wonderful nannies.
I had a great career as a nanny and truly enjoyed it, but just this last August I decided to retire. I am no longer up to the long days and the stress that comes with managing children and family 50 or so hours a week.
The children I have cared for have never received less because of my illness and I never wanted them to .It was time to say goodbye.
I now work a job with a more flexible schedule and volunteer with children as a story reader and baby cuddler at a shelter in my home town.
 Good luck to you and take care of yourself[/quote]

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