Bisexuality & the experience of bi erasure
Bi erasure leads to bisexual individuals feelings pushed out of different communities and creating a sense of isolation and rejection, leading to harmful mental health effects.
Bi erasure is a term used to describe the marginalization and invisibility of bisexual individuals in society. This can take many forms, including the assumption that bisexual individuals are either gay or straight, the belief that bisexuality is not a valid sexual orientation, and the exclusion of bisexual individuals from LGBTQ+ communities and spaces.
Bi erasure can have serious negative impacts on bisexual individuals, including feelings of isolation, rejection, and invalidation. It can also contribute to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
As a therapist, it is important to be aware of bi erasure and its effects, and to provide a safe and affirming space for bisexual clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This may involve challenging assumptions and stereotypes about bisexuality, and providing education and resources to help bisexual clients understand and affirm their sexual orientation.
It is also important to be inclusive and supportive of bisexual clients in therapy, and to provide referrals to LGBTQ+ affirming resources and support groups. By doing so, therapists can help bisexual clients feel validated, accepted, and supported in their journey towards healing and growth.
If you are a bisexual individual who has experienced bi erasure, or if you are a therapist who is interested in learning more about supporting bisexual clients, please don't hesitate to reach out for support and resources. Together, we can work towards reducing bi erasure and promoting acceptance and inclusion for all sexual orientations.