Research shows that many bisexual individuals experience intersectional discrimination based on their identities. These include gender identity and expression, race, ethnicity, class, religion, disability, age, geographical location, citizenship status, appearance, body type, language ability, political affiliation, socioeconomic status, education level, employment history, family situation, and more. This exclusion can come from peers, friends, romantic partners, co-workers, family members, law enforcement, medical professionals, educators, religious leaders, media outlets, public figures, politicians, celebrities, and others. The intersections between these multiple forms of exclusion can be devastating for bisexual individuals.
There are several ways that bisexual individuals can cultivate resilience to help them cope with this oppression.
They can seek support from other bisexual individuals who have experienced similar challenges. There are numerous online communities and organizations specifically designed for bisexual individuals, as well as LGBTQ+ centers in many cities around the world. These groups provide a safe space where bisexual individuals can share their experiences, receive validation and encouragement, learn new skills and strategies, and develop strong relationships with one another. They may also offer educational resources, such as books, podcasts, videos, and workshops, which can teach bisexual individuals about various aspects of bisexual culture and advocacy.
Bisexual individuals can engage in self-care activities to manage their mental health and build resilience. These include exercise, meditation, journaling, therapy, mindfulness practices, hobbies, socializing with friends, spending time in nature, practicing gratitude, volunteering or activism, and seeking professional development opportunities. Many people benefit from regular check-ins with trusted loved ones or mentors, so they can stay accountable for their emotional and physical well-being. Self-care is an ongoing process, not a one-time event, and it's important to find what works best for each person's unique needs and interests.
Bisexual individuals can educate themselves and others about bisexuality. This involves researching historical and contemporary bisexual figures, learning about biphobia and its effects, reading books and articles written by bisexual authors, watching films and TV shows that feature bisexual characters, participating in online discussions, attending conferences and events, and speaking up when necessary. By increasing public awareness of bisexual issues and experiences, bisexual individuals can challenge stereotypes and misconceptions while empowering themselves and others.
Bisexual individuals can practice self-advocacy by taking concrete actions to improve their lives. They can attend protests and rallies, write letters and emails to politicians, support businesses that are LGBTQ+ friendly, donate money to relevant organizations, start their own projects, join committees and task forces, and engage in other forms of activism. The more vocal and visible bisexual people become, the more likely it is that society will begin to recognize and respect them as equal citizens deserving of dignity and respect.
By utilizing these strategies, bisexual individuals can cultivate resilience despite facing numerous forms of exclusion in their daily lives. It takes time, effort, and commitment, but with patience and persistence, they can create a life filled with joy, meaning, connection, and purpose.
How do bisexual individuals cultivate resilience in the face of intersecting forms of exclusion?
Resilience can be defined as the ability to cope with and adapt to adversity or stress. It involves developing strategies to overcome challenges and maintain mental health despite external pressures. Research has shown that bisexual individuals experience significant levels of social exclusion due to discrimination based on their sexual orientation. This includes rejection by family members, friends, and society at large, which can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and depression.