Mental Health in Research
Bisexual Australia ( The ‘Who I Am’) Study talks about the needs of our bi+ community and issues surrounding the effects of mental health. The study consisted of 2,651 Australian Adults who were bisexual or were attracted to more than one gender. The study tapped into topics Bi Social Network has been reporting since 2009 about how we need to focus more on mental health and well-being, which is greatly affecting marginalized populations.
The study also shows that people affected in the Bi+ community, who are also living below the poverty line; are more likely to suffer from major mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Cheat Sheet: Some of the issues:
- Internalized Biphobia
- Heterosexual relationship partnership – not having enough supportive
- Higher stress and anxiety factors
- More likely to have anxiety depressions and PTSD
- Stress on biphobia issues and erasure
Internalised biphobia refers to a lack of self-acceptance experienced by some bisexual people as a result of their own heteronormative views. Bisexual people have been found to experience a greater lack of self-acceptance with regards to their sexuality than homosexual people.
Bisexual Communities Affected in Many Countries
We know this isn’t just in Australia. Step Up For Mental Health are talking about these very issues here in the states. We have online support, helpline, and partnered with BetterHelp for anyone who connects with our website, you get 1-month free of talk therapy when you sign up! Also, if you can’t afford support. We may be able to help you receive a small grant under our Bi+ BSN Project – Small Grant Program, for another 1-2 months.
Peer Support Groups Online and Local:
We know that some individuals, are not keen on seeing a mental health professional, right now in their life, and are more into peer support. Join our upcoming online peer support group, to connect with others, but are not able to enjoy pride parades or are housebound during pride months in June and September. We want you to celebrate with us and understand the needs and lack of support you might be feeling in your own life.
Therefore, let’s support this issue right now. The signs are clear, the bi+ community needs more support and special attention. That’s why Step Up For Mental Health, Bi+ BSN Project was created and our programs are in step with the current research data. Reach out, we here to support you!
Register for our upcoming Bi+ BSN Project: Bisexual Pride Online Peer Celebration. The event is Sat, June 29, 2019, at 12:00 PM CDT.
Visit our Peer Support Group Page for upcoming events in September, and check back for updates!
