LGBT+ (Lesbian, Gay, Transgender & Bisexual Plus)
Is it normal to feel confused?
We occasionally receive messages on cool2talk from young people who are feeling a bit confused about their sexuality, this is totally normal, many young people go through a time of confusion, feeling uncertain about who they are attracted to. Equally many young people are happy with who they are and do not have an issue with exactly what sexuality they feel they belong to.
Having said that many young people who are LGBT will find it tough at some point and it is important to get the right kind of support when it is needed.
What and where to get support?
LGBT young people can be affected by just the same problems as other young people and if you are struggling with something it is important to talk. It may feel like there is nobody, but there will always be someone who will listen. You may well be surprised how helpful it is to just tell someone about whatever is playing on your mind. If you find that the first person you speak to does not listen, keep talking till you find that person who is willing to hear you.
People you may want to seek out for a chat:-
Friends can prove to be really important, remember they may well have experienced something similar.
Your family or carers, tell them how you are feeling, they may struggle a little at first but given time they will often become your closest allies.
Guidance staff at school are rained to listen to whatever is troubling you. Also if your grades are struggling due to problems they can explain and make allowances.
If you are concerned about your mental health you can speak confidentially to your doctor, alone. They can refer you to the most appropriate service.
If you have access to a counsellor, they will listen to you emphatically and non judgementally.
If you find talking face to face with someone difficult there are now several services that mean you can either talk over the phone or online through instant messenger.
One phone service that is recommended is ‘The Mix’,
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
The LGBT youth website has an online counselling service and this can be accessed via their website
Coming out is when you tell someone your sexual orientation or gender. Most people are brought up to think that everyone will be attracted to the opposite sex, also that their gender will match how they appear physically. These people do not usually feel they need to ‘come out’ and often do not even consider that they have a sexual orientation or gender identity.
Lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people have to choose if and when they tell others their sexual orientation.
LGBT Youth Scotland has produced two coming out guides, one for Trans young people and another for lesbian, gay and bi-sexual young people .
COMING OUT GUIDE – SEXUAL ORIENTATION
COMING OUT GUIDE – GENDER IDENTITY