Understanding Bisexuality in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Bisexuality describes a person who is physically, sexually, or emotionally attracted to more than one gender, often men and women. It’s an umbrella term, and experiences of bisexuality can vary widely from person to person.

In Grand Rapids, MI, many people are exploring their sexual orientation while balancing family, work, school, and community life. Knowing that bisexuality is valid and common can help reduce shame and confusion.

How People Experience Bisexuality

Not everyone who is attracted to more than one gender will use the label “bisexual.” Some people in Grand Rapids may:

  • Identify as bisexual, pansexual, queer, or another term
  • Consider themselves mostly straight or mostly gay while still having attraction to more than one gender
  • Prefer not to use any label at all

Attraction can also show up in different ways:

  • Someone may feel romantic or emotional attraction to more than one gender but only have sexual relationships with one gender
  • A person may be attracted to multiple genders but choose to abstain from sex
  • Attraction may not be ���50/50” – a bisexual person might feel stronger attraction to one gender, and this can change over time or with different partners

Sexual and romantic attraction are complex, and there is no “right” way to be bisexual.

Common Misunderstandings About Bisexuality

People in Grand Rapids who are bisexual often face myths and stereotypes, such as:

  • “You’re just confused”
  • “You’re going through a phase”
  • “You’re really straight but experimenting”
  • “You’re really gay but afraid to come out”
  • “You have to pick a side”

These beliefs are not accurate. Bisexuality is a valid sexual orientation, not a phase, and not a sign of indecision.

Because there are no visible “signs” of bisexuality, people in long-term relationships are often assumed to be straight or gay based on their current partner’s gender. This can make it harder for bisexual people to feel seen and respected.

Coming Out as Bisexual in Grand Rapids

Coming out as bisexual is often a gradual and ongoing process. A person may need to come out multiple times:

  • To parents, siblings, or extended family
  • To friends and classmates
  • To coworkers or supervisors
  • To healthcare providers in Grand Rapids, such as at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health

Without understanding and support, this process can feel confusing or overwhelming. Some challenges include:

  • Being told to “make up your mind”
  • Feeling pressure to identify as either straight or gay
  • Having your identity dismissed as a phase or experimentation
  • Being assumed straight or gay depending on your current partner

Bisexual people may experience discrimination from both heterosexual and gay/lesbian communities, which can increase feelings of isolation.

Mental Health and Bisexuality

Because of stigma and misunderstanding, bisexual people may be at higher risk for:

  • Anxiety and depression
  • Low self-esteem
  • Substance use
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

In Grand Rapids, the long winters, shorter daylight hours, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can add to existing mental health challenges, especially for LGBTQ+ residents who already feel isolated.

If you are bisexual or questioning and struggling with your mental health, it’s important to know that help is available locally and confidentially.

Finding Support in Grand Rapids, MI

If you think you might be bisexual, feel confused about your sexuality, or are experiencing discrimination, talking with someone you trust is a good first step. This could be:

  • A close friend or family member
  • A school counselor or college counseling center (e.g., Grand Valley State University, Calvin University, Aquinas College, GRCC)
  • A mental health professional who is LGBTQ+ affirming

You can also connect with local and state resources that support bisexual and LGBTQ+ people in West Michigan.

Local Resources in Grand Rapids

  • Grand Rapids Pride Center
    Offers support groups, social events, and resources for LGBTQ+ people, including those who are bisexual or questioning.
    Website: search “Grand Rapids Pride Center”

  • Kent County Health Department
    Provides sexual health services, STI testing, and referrals to affirming care providers in Kent County.
    Website: search “Kent County Health Department sexual health”

  • Grand Rapids Public Health / City of Grand Rapids
    Lists community health programs, mental health resources, and local clinics that are welcoming to LGBTQ+ residents.

  • Major Healthcare Systems (LGBTQ+-affirming services vary by location)

    • Spectrum Health (Corewell Health)
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
    • Mercy Health
      Ask for providers experienced in LGBTQ+ or sexual health care when scheduling.

Michigan and National Support Hotlines

These services can be used anywhere in Grand Rapids or across Michigan, often 24/7:

  • The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ young people up to age 25)

    • Phone: 1‑866‑488‑7386
    • Text & Chat: search “Trevor Project” online

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

    • Call or text 988 from anywhere in Michigan for immediate emotional support

  • Trans Lifeline (also supportive of nonbinary and questioning people)

    • Phone: 877‑565‑8860

  • National LGBT Help Center

    • LGBT National Hotline: 1‑888‑843‑4564
    • LGBT National Youth Talkline: 1‑800‑246‑7743

  • Crisis Text Line

    • Text “HOME” to 741741 for free, confidential support

If you are in immediate danger or having a medical emergency in Grand Rapids, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department (for example, at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital or Trinity Health Grand Rapids).

Living as a bisexual person in Grand Rapids can involve unique decisions and challenges:

  • Dating and relationships

    • You may date people of different genders over time
    • Others may make assumptions about your orientation based on your current partner

  • Work and school

    • You may choose whether or not to come out to coworkers, classmates, or teachers
    • Some workplaces and schools in Grand Rapids have non-discrimination policies that protect LGBTQ+ people

  • Family and community

    • Some families may need time and education to understand bisexuality
    • Faith communities in West Michigan vary in how affirming they are; some congregations are openly welcoming to LGBTQ+ members

Seeking out bisexual-affirming spaces—online or in person—can help you feel more supported and less alone.

Tips if You’re Questioning Your Sexuality

If you’re in Grand Rapids and wondering whether you might be bisexual:

  • Take your time; there is no deadline for figuring out your sexual orientation
  • Explore your feelings without judgment—attraction can be emotional, romantic, or sexual
  • Read stories or watch videos from bisexual people to see a range of experiences
  • Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal
  • Talk with a trusted friend, counselor, or LGBTQ+-affirming therapist
  • Remember that your label can change over time as you learn more about yourself

You do not need to have had sexual experience with more than one gender to identify as bisexual. Your orientation is about who you are attracted to, not just what you’ve done.

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider talking to a healthcare or mental health professional in Grand Rapids if:

  • You feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed about your sexuality
  • You are being bullied, harassed, or discriminated against
  • You are using alcohol or drugs to cope with stress related to your identity
  • You have thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Ask specifically for an LGBTQ+-affirming provider. Many clinics and counseling centers in Grand Rapids now list this information on their websites, or you can call and ask before scheduling.

You Are Not Alone

Bisexual people are an important part of the Grand Rapids and West Michigan community. Your identity is real and valid, whether or not you are out, and regardless of who you are currently dating.

If you’re bisexual or questioning in Grand Rapids, Michigan, support is available—from local LGBTQ+ organizations and health departments to national hotlines and online communities. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and there is always someone ready to listen.