Overcoming Internalized Biphobia: A Personal Story

By Linda Athanasiadou
Growing up, I never questioned that I would one day fall in love, get married, and live a life that mirrored the stories I had seen in movies and books. But as I navigated my teenage years, it became clear that my feelings didn’t fit neatly into the expectations that surrounded me. I was drawn to people regardless of their gender, and while part of me reveled in the beauty of that freedom, another part felt ashamed. Internalized biphobia had crept into my life before I even knew what it was.
In my early twenties, I began to explore my identity more openly, but the weight of societal stereotypes still lingered. Bisexuality was dismissed as a phase, something that didn’t require serious acknowledgment. I internalized these messages, questioning whether my feelings were legitimate or whether I was somehow fooling myself and others. Relationships became fraught with over-analysis. Was I performing straightness when I dated a man? Was I trying to prove something when I dated a woman? These questions were exhausting, and they made it difficult to feel at peace with myself.
The turning point came when I stumbled upon a community of other bisexual individuals who were unapologetically themselves. They spoke about their experiences with humor, grace, and raw honesty, and for the first time, I felt seen. Their stories mirrored my own struggles, but they also reflected a confidence and joy that I had been longing to find. It was in their company that I began to unpack the layers of shame I had carried for so long.
One of the most challenging aspects of overcoming internalized biphobia was unlearning the myths I had absorbed. I had to confront the idea that being bisexual made me less capable of monogamy, less trustworthy, or less valid. These stereotypes were not truths about who I was; they were reflections of a society that struggled to understand fluidity. By naming these falsehoods and rejecting them, I reclaimed parts of myself that I had been taught to hide.
Therapy also played a crucial role in my journey. Working with an affirming therapist who understood the nuances of bisexuality allowed me to explore my feelings without judgment. I learned to recognize internalized biphobia as a form of oppression and to treat myself with the kindness and compassion I would offer a friend. This process wasn’t linear, but each step brought me closer to a version of myself that felt whole and authentic.
As I grew more comfortable with my identity, I began to share my story with others. At first, this felt terrifying. What if people judged me or dismissed my experiences? But each conversation, no matter how small, became a way to reclaim my narrative. I found that being open about my bisexuality didn’t just help me—it also opened doors for others to share their stories and feel less alone.
Today, I embrace my bisexuality as an integral part of who I am. It has taught me about resilience, empathy, and the beauty of connection. While moments of doubt still arise, they no longer hold the same power over me. I remind myself that my identity is valid, that my feelings are real, and that I am not alone in this journey.
Overcoming internalized biphobia is a deeply personal process, but it’s also a collective one. By sharing our stories and supporting one another, we create a world where bisexuality is celebrated rather than questioned. For those still struggling, I want you to know that your feelings are valid, your identity matters, and there is a community ready to embrace you. Together, we can rewrite the narratives that once held us back and step into a future defined by authenticity and pride.