The term “bisexual” describes a person who experiences emotional, romantic, and/or sexual feelings towards more than one sex or gender. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) published in 2016 in the National Health Statistics Reports, reporting 5.5 percent of women and 2 percent of men said they were bisexual within the survey group.
Important points to note:
Sexuality is fluid and is on a scale. It is common for people to discover their sexuality later in life or change their sexual interests.
The term bisexuality is often linked to other words such as “queer” and “pansexual,” but these terms are not always interchangeable.
There isn’t a “test” or “list” to verify your own sexuality. Considering your attractions regardless of your own gender might give you more clarity than going through a checklist.
Bisexuality and other sexual orientations are NOT illnesses or disorders. Gender and sexuality are a natural part of nature people have been living in for thousands of years.
Gay, Lesbian, and bisexual students are three times more likely to be physically forced to have sexual intercourse, four times more likely to attempt suicide, and five times more likely to inject any illegal drugs compared to their heterosexual peers.
Support groups are safe spaces structured to allow participants to share personal experiences, feelings, coping strategies, and information. The discussions often are facilitated by an experienced leader or a medical professional.
Because bisexual and other queer people are at higher risk to experience mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Support groups can allow us to make connections, providing tangible benefits to people experiencing mental health issues.
Benefits of participating in support groups can include:
Reducing feelings of loneliness, isolation and stigma associated with being “different”
Reducing distress, depression, anxiety or fatigue
Talking openly and honestly about your feelings
Gaining a sense of empowerment, control or hope
Learning about health, economic or social resources
Benefits of online support groups can include:
Faster time to get help, skipping appointment wait time
More frequent or flexible participation
A cost effective way to see a licensed mental health professional
A degree of privacy or anonymity comparing to local community support groups
Opportunities for people in areas with no face-to-face support groups
You are not alone. Herd is ready to support you.