Key Takeaways
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, and bisexuality is a sexual orientation. Together, they can influence your view of the world.
Talk therapy can help you discover your strengths, cope with mental health challenges, and build a life that feels right for you.
If you’re interested in therapy, look for a provider who has experience working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent populations.
Have you ever thought about how your experiences differ from people around you? Each person’s identity and perspective is based on factors like their gender, sexuality, and the way their brain functions. For some people, this unique perspective involves ADHD and bisexuality.
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition. Bisexuality is a sexual orientation. If you're bisexual with ADHD, you may be wondering how the two intersect and impact your daily life.
The link between ADHD and bisexuality
ADHD is characterized by challenges with impulsivity, focus, and self-regulation. It's typically diagnosed during childhood but can affect various aspects of adulthood. This includes your personal development and relationships.
Some research suggests that people with ADHD are more likely to be bisexual than people without ADHD. Although one doesn’t cause the other, it's still important to understand the connection.
Here’s how they might overlap:
Rejection sensitivity: Having ADHD may make you more sensitive to rejection, criticism, and failure. If you're bisexual, this might prevent you from embracing your sexuality or coming out to family and friends.
Hyperfocus: Some people with ADHD experience hyperfocus. With hyperfocus, people develop an intense fixation on certain thoughts or topics, like sexuality. For example, you might spend days researching labels or questioning your feelings for someone.
Difficulty focusing: ADHD can also make it difficult to plan, stay organized, and focus on tasks. This can impact things like using contraception and testing for STIs, according to a study on bisexual women with ADHD.
Impulsive behaviors: ADHD impulsivity is associated with risky sexual behaviors, especially among women.
Navigating life with ADHD and bisexuality
People who are neurodivergent and also part of the LGBTQ+ community may face some unique situations and challenges. A common ADHD misconception is that you’ll never be successful at work, school, or in your relationships. You might be labeled as lazy or unmotivated, even though ADHD is a diagnosable and manageable condition.
There are also stigmas associated with bisexuality. People may assume that you're confused or that your sexuality is "just a phase." You might be called a tease or be labeled as afraid of commitment.
Together, these misconceptions can influence how you experience the world. The stress of being judged or not fitting in can trigger anxiety and self-doubt. You may also be more likely to experience low self-esteem and negative body image.
That said, there are plenty of positive traits associated with ADHD. For example, people with ADHD tend to be creative and high energy. They often have a great sense of humor, aren’t afraid to think outside the box, and follow their passions and desires — including their sexuality. Resilience, empathy, and adaptability are also common among LGBTQ+ neurodivergent people.
Affirming care for ADHD and bisexuality
ADHD and bisexuality are parts of who you are and not something to be challenged or cured. That said, the right support can help you learn more about yourself and strengthen your mental health.
LGBTQ+ neurodivergent people may face some unique barriers to accessing mental healthcare. For example, they might be more likely to be misunderstood or receive a misdiagnosis. Because of this, it’s important to find a provider who understands your preferences and puts you at ease.
Look for a therapist who has experience working with diverse sexual identities. They can help you set healthy boundaries, navigate relationships, and cope with mental health challenges in a safe setting.
If you have ADHD, you also want a provider who understands neurodiversity. Ask about their experience, communication style, and treatment approach. With the right provider, you can develop new skills related to organization, emotional regulation, and managing your behavior.
In addition to therapy, you may find it helpful to practice regular self-care or join a support group for people with similar experiences.
Clinician's take
Many LGBTQ+ neurodivergent clients tell me it’s hard to find therapists who understand both of their identities. It can feel frustrating, but don’t give up. There are providers out there who get it and can support you fully.
Find care with Rula
Being both neurodivergent and queer may lead to some unique challenges. Therapy can help you embrace your strengths, navigate difficult situations, and live a life that feels right to you.
At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best.
Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 21,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.
