March marks a significant period dedicated to Bisexual+ Health Awareness Month, an initiative spearheaded by the Bisexual Resource Center to illuminate the unique challenges faced by the bisexual+ population. This term encompasses individuals who are attracted to more than one gender, and despite being the largest segment within the LGBTQIA+ community in the United States, these individuals often encounter disparities across healthcare, social support, and research representation, with less than 1% of LGBTQ funding allocated to their needs. Such invisibility and erasure lead to notable gaps in health outcomes when compared to their lesbian, gay, and heterosexual peers.
The theme for this year, 'Connection,' aims to bridge these gaps by fostering stronger bonds within the bisexual+ community, ensuring access to supportive networks, and promoting health services that genuinely recognize their identities. As per the Bisexual Resource Center, the power of connection cannot be overstated – it significantly bolsters the physical, mental, and social well-being of bisexual+ individuals, particularly those from historically marginalized backgrounds.
With the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of maintaining connections has become more evident than ever, prompting innovative approaches to sustaining social and intimate ties. In honor of Bisexual+ Health Awareness Month, let's explore beneficial resources and avenues for connection designed to enhance the well-being of the bisexual+ community.
Explore a variety of events, from bi+ identity and disability discussions to virtual self-care workshops and fun trivia nights. These events provide an opportunity to connect with fellow bisexual+ individuals and are available both in-person and online. For a full schedule of events, refer to the official list provided by the Bisexual Resource Center.
Bisexual+ people often face difficulties in finding dedicated support groups. To address this, the Bisexual Resource Center offers a directory of social and identity support groups to facilitate easier connections with peers who share similar experiences.
Platforms like Psychology Today offer a database that includes a filter for sexual identity, allowing individuals to find a therapist attuned to bisexual+ mental health needs. Additionally, the National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network provides a directory specifically for queer and trans People of Color, which includes therapists who identify as bisexual+.
Local bisexual resource centers and support groups can also be instrumental in connecting you with a knowledgeable therapist, offering insights into their compatibility with the bisexual+ community based on collective experiences.
Healthcare provider directories such as OutCare and the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association, despite the latter's name not explicitly including 'bisexual,' provide extensive databases of LGBTQIA+ supportive providers. It's vital to verify that these providers have specific training in bisexual+ health to ensure the most affirmative and understanding care possible.
As we observe Bisexual+ Health Awareness Month, it's crucial to recognize the importance of these resources not only during March but throughout the entire year, for continued community building and access to supportive care.