Bisexual Women at Highest Risk of Mental Health Problems

Bisexual women have been found to be at highest risk of health problems compared to people with other sexual orientations, a new study finds.

Compared to heterosexual people, bisexual men and homosexual people, bisexual women are more likely to suffer from mental health disorders, including STIs, chronic illnesses and poorer general health. The research, commissioned by the Norwegian Directorate of Children, Youth and Family Affairs, showed that the quality of life of gay and bisexual people is now similar to that of heterosexual people. "The similarities are greater than the differences regarding quality of life. That suggests that the world is moving forward," said Dr, Kirsti Malterud, one of the researchers involved in the study. "The previous Norwegian report on quality of life from 1999 presented a dismal picture."

"We see signs of marginalization and minority stress in a small group. This group has more mental health problems, poorer self-rated health, more sexually transmitted diseases, experiences loneliness and includes several suicide attempts. This applies to a minority but it is serious," said Dr. Malterud. A survey they provided to their participants showed that some 78 percent of bisexual men and 68 percent of bisexual women do not reveal their sexual orientation with their colleagues. In contrast, only 18 percent of gay men and nine percent of gay women keep their sexuality undisclosed at work.

"The fact that some are struggling is related to the attitudes of those around them. Perhaps there's little room in our culture for people who don't want to call themselves heterosexuals, gays or lesbians. Have we reached our limit of tolerance by accepting gays and lesbians, but then that's enough?' questioned Dr. Malterud. "It's not the case that it's up to the individual to come out, this is a responsibility we all share."