The term "bisexual" is derived from Latin and means "two sexes". It refers to an individual who is attracted to both men and women. In recent years, there has been increasing visibility for this population, however, many still struggle with being accepted by their peers and even themselves. Bisexuals often experience chronic social invalidation or erasure due to their identity, which can have significant mental health implications. This essay will explore these implications and how they impact bisexual individuals' lives.
Mental Health Implications
One of the main mental health implications of chronic social invalidation or erasure of bisexual identity is low self-esteem. When individuals are constantly told that their feelings or experiences are wrong or fake, it can lead to negative thoughts about oneself. This can include feelings of shame, guilt, inadequacy, and worthlessness. For some, this can lead to depression or anxiety disorders.
Bisexuals may feel isolated and alone since they do not fit into either straight or gay/lesbian communities. This can further exacerbate mental health issues.
Self-Harm Behaviors
Another issue that bisexual individuals face is self-harming behaviors. Many turn to cutting, burning, or other methods to deal with emotional pain. They may believe that they are unworthy of love or belonging, so resort to harming themselves physically instead. This can be a dangerous cycle that requires professional help to break out of.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is another common problem among bisexual individuals who have experienced chronic social invalidation or erasure. Drugs and alcohol can provide a temporary escape from the pain of rejection and isolation.
Long-term use can lead to addiction and even more severe mental health problems. It is important for bisexual individuals to seek support if they are struggling with substance abuse.
Suicide Risk
Unfortunately, some bisexual individuals experience suicidal ideations due to the ongoing invalidation of their identity. Being made to feel like an "other" or being denied access to relationships or community resources can be too much for some to bear. In extreme cases, this can lead to thoughts of ending one's life. It is essential for friends, family, and professionals to recognize these warning signs and provide support before it reaches this point.
Chronic social invalidation or erasure of bisexual identity can have significant mental health implications. Bisexuals need to know that they are valid and deserve respect just like everyone else. Friends, family, and professionals should work to create safe spaces where bisexuals can express themselves without fear of judgment or ridicule. By doing so, we can reduce the risk of self-harm behaviors, substance abuse, and suicide in this population.
What are the mental health implications of chronic social invalidation or erasure of bisexual identity?
In bisexual people, chronic experiences of social invalidation or erasure can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. This is because they may feel unseen, misunderstood, or rejected by society, which can affect their overall sense of belonging and wellbeing. In addition, it can also cause them to doubt themselves and their sexuality, leading to feelings of confusion, uncertainty, and isolation.