Unique Health Concerns for Bisexual Individuals

Bisexual individuals - those who experience attraction to more than one gender - often navigate a unique set of health challenges that differ from those faced by both their heterosexual and exclusively homosexual peers. While the recognition of bisexuality as a legitimate sexual orientation is gradually growing, many bisexual people still encounter health disparities that affect both their physical and mental well-being. These disparities are not only linked to stigma and discrimination but are often exacerbated by a lack of understanding and inadequate healthcare resources.

For bisexual people, the complexities of navigating a world that often views sexual orientation in a binary way can take a toll on their health. Unfortunately, bisexual individuals are at greater risk for a range of issues, from mental health struggles like anxiety and depression, to higher rates of sexual health risks. There’s also the issue of what we call "bi invisibility"—the tendency for bisexuality to be erased or invalidated, leaving many feeling overlooked or misunderstood.

In honor of Bisexual Health Awareness Month, this blog will dive into the unique health concerns that bisexual individuals face, from mental health challenges and sexual health risks, to the critical importance of inclusive healthcare. We will also explore ways to seek support, access appropriate care, and advocate for better health outcomes within the bisexual community. By better understanding the intersection of bisexuality and health, we can work toward building a world that supports the well-being of all bisexual individuals - ensuring that they receive the care, recognition, and respect they deserve.

Mental Health Disparities in Bisexual Individuals

Bisexual individuals face higher rates of mental health struggles compared to their heterosexual peers, with conditions like depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation being more prevalent. The causes of these disparities are multifaceted, often tied to external factors such as societal stigma, discrimination, and marginalization. These experiences can leave bisexual people feeling isolated, invalidated, and misunderstood, which only deepens the challenges they face in managing their mental health.

A major contributing factor to these mental health issues is what is known as “bi-invisibility.” This term refers to the tendency for bisexuality to be ignored, misunderstood, or erased both within and outside the LGBTQ+ community. In LGBTQ+ spaces, bisexual individuals are sometimes accused of being confused, “just experimenting,” or “not fully gay,” while in heterosexual spaces, they may face stereotyping, such as being viewed as promiscuous or indecisive. These invalidating experiences can deeply affect their self-esteem and mental well-being, contributing to feelings of self-doubt and loneliness.

The Impact of Intersectionality on Mental Health

For bisexual individuals who also identify as people of color, transgender, or non-binary, the mental health challenges they face can be even more complex. The intersection of multiple marginalized identities often leads to a unique set of stressors. Bisexual people who are also members of other marginalized groups may experience compounded discrimination. For instance, they might encounter biphobia within their ethnic communities, or racism within the LGBTQ+ community, further adding to their mental health struggles. These intersecting forms of marginalization can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns, creating a cycle that is hard to break without appropriate support.

Increased Risk of Sexual Health Concerns

Bisexual individuals often face unique sexual health risks that differ from those experienced by their heterosexual or exclusively homosexual counterparts. Studies have shown that bisexual people - especially bisexual women and men who engage in sexual activity with both men and women - are at a higher risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV.

One of the primary reasons for this increased risk is the lack of access to appropriate sexual health resources. Bisexual individuals, more than their heterosexual or gay peers, may hesitate to disclose their sexual orientation to healthcare providers. This lack of openness can lead to a disconnect in communication about potential risk factors, leaving bisexual people without the essential preventative care they need, such as regular STI screenings or HIV testing. Moreover, feelings of discomfort or fear of judgment from healthcare providers can discourage bisexual individuals from seeking care altogether.

Bi-Visibility and Safe Healthcare Access

The challenges bisexual people face in accessing healthcare are compounded by the experience of “biphobia” - prejudices and stereotypes about bisexuality that exist both within the LGBTQIA+ community and in heterosexual spaces. Biphobia can lead to discrimination or misunderstandings in healthcare settings, making it harder for bisexual individuals to receive nonjudgmental, affirming, and competent care. Unfortunately, many bisexual individuals are left feeling stigmatized or invisible, which can prevent them from seeking out vital sexual health services, such as routine STI screenings or counseling on safe sex practices.

For bisexual men, particularly those who engage in sex with both men and women, there is a heightened risk of HIV transmission. If protection isn’t consistently used with partners of different genders, the risk of HIV exposure increases. For bisexual women, there is often a misconception that their risk for STIs, particularly from sexual encounters with men, is lower or even nonexistent. This oversight can contribute to a false sense of security and an increased vulnerability to STIs.

The Impact of Biphobia on Health and Well-Being

Biphobia - the fear, mistrust, or outright hatred of bisexual people - has a profound and lasting impact on the mental and physical well-being of those who identify as bisexual. This form of discrimination can manifest in both overt and subtle ways, but its consequences are always real and significant. The emotional toll of biphobia often goes beyond a single instance of discrimination; it creates long-term stress that affects mental health and quality of life.

Social Isolation and Stigma

One of the most devastating effects of biphobia is social isolation. Bisexual individuals frequently experience rejection or exclusion, not just in the wider society, but within their own communities. Within the heterosexual world, bisexuality is often met with skepticism or dismissal, and even within the LGBTQIA+ community, bisexual individuals are frequently marginalized. This constant exclusion contributes to loneliness and a sense of disconnection from both worlds, leaving bisexual people without a clear place of belonging.

The stigma that bisexual individuals face often leads to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. In environments like the workplace, educational institutions, or healthcare settings, bisexual people may encounter overt biases, microaggressions, or even outright hostility. These negative experiences can create a barrier to accessing support, including mental health care, and leave individuals feeling isolated in their struggles.

Moreover, the impact of this stigma extends to personal relationships. Bisexual individuals may struggle with romantic partnerships due to misunderstanding, mistrust, or concerns that their partners may feel insecure or invalidated. In addition, friendships and family connections can become strained when bisexual people feel that their sexuality is not fully accepted or understood. This lack of support from loved ones exacerbates stress, making it harder to maintain mental and emotional well-being.

Bi-Erasure and Invalidation

Another harmful aspect of biphobia is bi-erasure, the tendency to overlook or invalidate bisexuality as a legitimate sexual orientation. Whether it’s through casual jokes, lack of representation in media, or dismissal in conversations about LGBTQIA+ rights, bisexuality is often treated as if it doesn’t exist or isn’t “real.” Bisexual people may be accused of being confused, greedy, or indecisive, and face pressure to “choose a side” between being gay or straight.

This constant invalidation contributes to the feeling of invisibility. Bisexual individuals can struggle with confusion about their identity, and for those who have not yet fully embraced their sexual orientation, bi-erasure can delay self-acceptance and create emotional barriers to seeking support. When bisexual people are not affirmed or validated, it can be difficult for them to build a positive sexual identity, which further compounds the risk of mental health struggles.

The emotional toll of bi-erasure also extends to accessing appropriate mental health care and other support systems. Without a sense of affirmation, bisexual individuals may feel uncomfortable or reluctant to seek out resources, leading them to navigate mental health concerns without the proper help or validation.

Healthcare Gaps: Lack of Bi-Inclusive Services

One of the significant challenges faced by bisexual individuals is the lack of bi-inclusive healthcare services. Many healthcare providers, especially those in sexual health and mental health fields, often lack the training and knowledge needed to adequately address the specific needs of bisexual people. This gap in understanding can lead to inadequate care, misdiagnoses, or missed opportunities for early intervention.

For instance, mental health professionals may overlook or misunderstand the experiences of bisexual individuals. There is a common assumption that bisexual people are “confused” about their sexual orientation, or that their struggles are simply related to their transition from heterosexuality to homosexuality or vice versa. This narrow view fails to take into account the unique challenges that bisexual individuals face, including biphobia from both the heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ communities. When mental health professionals don’t fully understand or validate these experiences, bisexual individuals may not receive the care they need to navigate their identity in a healthy and supportive environment.

Similarly, in sexual healthcare settings, bisexual individuals may not be offered the proper screenings, preventive care, or HIV/STI testing that is specific to their sexual practices. The assumption that bisexual people will engage only with one gender, or that they are inherently at lower risk for sexual health issues, leads to serious gaps in care. This oversight can result in delayed diagnoses, increased health risks, and ultimately, worse health outcomes for bisexual individuals.

The Need for Inclusive Mental Health Support

Mental health care that is both affirming and inclusive of bisexuality is critical for the well-being of bisexual individuals. Unfortunately, not all mental health services are equipped to offer this level of support. Clinicians must be trained to understand the complexities of bisexuality and recognize the unique stressors faced by bisexual people, especially in a world where they are marginalized both within the LGBTQIA+ community and in mainstream heterosexual spaces.

Therapy and counseling services should create an environment that actively challenges biphobia. The process of healing for bisexual individuals is tied not only to personal growth and coping strategies but also to being affirmed in their identity. Clinicians should adopt a culture of acceptance, where bisexuality is recognized as a legitimate and valued sexual orientation, not something to be “fixed” or questioned. Bisexual individuals need to feel safe in expressing their needs and experiences without the fear of judgment or invalidation.

By expanding knowledge and implementing more inclusive practices in both sexual health and mental health care, we can begin to bridge the healthcare gaps that contribute to the health disparities faced by the bisexual community.

Self-Care and Support Strategies for Bisexual Individuals

Taking care of one’s mental and physical health is crucial for everyone, and for bisexual individuals, it becomes even more important due to the unique challenges they may face. By engaging in bi-inclusive healthcare, fostering supportive relationships, and practicing self-care, bisexual people can better navigate the complexities of their identities and enhance their overall well-being.

Seek Bi-Affirming Healthcare Providers

Accessing healthcare that is affirming of bisexuality is essential for mental and physical health. Finding healthcare providers - whether they are general practitioners, therapists, sexual health experts, or counselors - who are knowledgeable about bisexuality and who create inclusive, nonjudgmental spaces can make a world of difference. While it might take some effort to find these providers, it’s crucial to seek out professionals who listen actively, validate bisexual experiences, and offer care tailored to the needs of bisexual individuals. Providers who are affirming not only help to address physical health concerns but also foster a sense of emotional safety that encourages patients to be open and honest about their needs.

Build a Supportive Community

Creating a network of supportive individuals who truly understand and affirm bisexuality can help mitigate feelings of isolation. Connecting with others in LGBTQIA+ groups, online communities, or even within friendships with other bisexual individuals can provide a sense of camaraderie and belonging. These relationships can be powerful in alleviating the loneliness that often stems from societal stigma or bi-erasure. A supportive community fosters self-acceptance and provides a space where bisexual individuals can share their experiences, seek advice, and find validation.

Practice Mental Health Self-Care

Caring for one’s mental health is just as important as physical health, especially in the face of biphobia, discrimination, or internalized stigma. Bisexual individuals can benefit from incorporating mental health self-care strategies into their daily routine. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, exercise, or engaging in creative hobbies can help manage stress and improve overall mental well-being. Taking time for self-reflection, relaxation, and activities that promote joy and relaxation are vital for coping with societal pressures.

In addition to personal self-care, seeking professional support from bi-affirmative therapists can be a game-changer. A therapist who is knowledgeable about the specific challenges faced by bisexual individuals can provide coping strategies for navigating mental health concerns, dealing with biphobia, and helping to strengthen emotional resilience. Therapy can also support bisexual people in processing any internalized stigma, helping to foster self-acceptance and emotional growth.

Set Boundaries and Prioritize Well-Being

Along with mental health and physical care, bisexual individuals may find it helpful to establish healthy boundaries in their personal and professional lives. Setting boundaries - whether with people who don’t accept or understand their bisexuality or within toxic environments - can protect emotional well-being and reduce stress. Prioritizing well-being involves recognizing when to step back from negative situations and being gentle with oneself during challenging times.

By seeking out affirming healthcare, building strong support systems, practicing self-care strategies, and setting boundaries, bisexual individuals can take proactive steps toward maintaining their health and well-being. A holistic approach to self-care is key in fostering resilience, self-empowerment, and healing, especially within a society that often overlooks or invalidates their experiences.

Advocating for Bisexual Health

Bisexual individuals face distinct challenges related to both mental and sexual health, often due to societal stigma, discrimination, and a lack of understanding about their experiences. Addressing these health concerns requires a multi-faceted approach that includes bi-inclusive healthcare, mental health support, and community advocacy.

It is crucial that bisexual individuals find and advocate for healthcare that recognizes their unique needs, and that society works to eliminate the stigma and discrimination that contribute to these health disparities. By promoting inclusivity and providing resources, we can ensure that bisexual individuals have the tools and support to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.