How do you know if you’re straight, gay or bisexual?
It’s perfectly normal to feel attracted to either sex as you’re growing up and this can make you feel very confused about your sexuality. You might have sexual feelings for friends of both sexes or you may have had a sexual dream about someone of the same sex which has left you feeling confused. Ultimately, you’re the only one who can figure out your own sexuality and no-one should make you feel pressured into being someone you’re not.
Puberty
As you grow up and go through puberty, you may find yourself thinking about people of the same sex in a sexual way. This is totally normal. You might come to realise you prefer people of the opposite sex or you might prefer people of the same sex. You might be bisexual. It can take time for you to discover your sexuality and that’s OK. Some people don’t know until many years later.
Your sexuality is yours and yours alone. You deserve to be your true self, free from judgement, and to be with someone you love and who loves you back.
Getting Support
If you’re struggling with your sexuality or feel confused about whether you’re gay, straight or bisexual, you may find it helpful to reach out and talk to a friend or a counsellor on the Hidden Strength App. Our therapists are available 24/7, free. You can download our app here:
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hiddenstrength.app&hl=en_GB&gl=US
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/hidden-strength/id1565180829
What If I’m Not Sure?
Some people may think they identify as ‘x’ only to discover later in life that they actually identify as ‘y’. Others may find their sexuality is fluid – it changes over time. While this may be confusing, know that it’s perfectly normal. Like most things in life, situations and feelings can change over time – and so can your sexuality. That doesn’t make it any less valid. Find out more about what LGBTQ means here.
Should I Come Out?
This is your decision to make. Coming out can be scary for some people. While being gay, lesbian or bisexual is completely normal, some people have prejudiced views. If you’re thinking of coming out, it’s wise to tell someone you trust and love. Someone who will support you and accept you for who you are.
It’s never OK to pressurise someone into coming out. You should do it in your own time and in your own way. This is your life, your body, your voice.
What If I Get Bullied?
If you are being bullied because of your sexuality, this is wrong. This is what’s known as homophobic bullying – nobody should have to tolerate it. Sadly, some people don’t understand that being gay, lesbian or bisexual is normal. These people can have bigoted views and may say or do mean things to hurt you.
If you are being bullied in any form, whether it’s stares, hurtful comments, physical violence or being left out, this is not OK. Tell someone you trust to get support and help to put a stop to the homophobic behaviour – this could be a teacher, parent, friend, or reach out on the HS app for peer support or to talk to a therapist. To find out more about sexuality, click here.
