We are tired of being analyzed, defined and represented by people other than ourselves, or worse yet, not considered at all. – from the “Bisexual Manifesto,” 1990
Bisexuals are part of the L G B T Q I A community, and yet, bisexual identities are often less visible than their gay and lesbian counterparts. Biphobia is a form of oppression that is hardly ever talked about, a fact this is saddening for bisexual individuals and one that can also manifest itself into health risks that include drug and alcohol dependence and mental health disorders. The Bisexual Resource Center has designated March as the official Bisexual Health Awareness Month, which means it’s never been a better time to reflect on your own mental and physical health, as well as the issues that face the greater bisexual community.
Bisexual Health Awareness Month is a good opportunity to get informed, access health and sexuality resources, share stories, and reflect upon what it means to identify as bisexual in society today. If you’re a straight ally, this is an equally important chance to educate yourself about the health risks that bisexuals face, read up about the experiences of bisexuals, and find proactive ways to get involved with creating a more equal world for all LGBT people.
Did you know that studies have shown a higher risk for contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in people who identify as bisexual? These kinds of figures reveal the health risks that bisexuals face, and there are all kinds of fantastic resources out there to help facilitate your personal growth and wellbeing. The Bisexual Resource Center is a prolific network of organizations and individuals seeking to raise awareness about bisexuality, and offers an expansive collection of resources for Bisexual Health Awareness Month and always.
Remember, your sexual identity is valuable, and you deserve the same access to health resources, sex education, and loving, consensual relationships as anyone else.
Some of our favorite Bisexual Health Resources:
- The Bisexual Resource Center
- Brown University’s Health Concerns for Bisexuals Report
- Fenway Health Guide to Safer Bisexual Sex
- NGL Task Force Bisexuality Health Report
Photographic 2: Augustino via Shutterstock