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Understanding your sexuality
Your feelings and emotions develop as a teenager and there may be times where you feel worried or concerned about who you are sexually. You may find yourself developing strong feelings for members of the:
- same sex (gay/lesbian or homosexual)
- opposite sex (straight or heterosexual)
- both sexes (bisexual)
Finding someone of the same sex attractive does not necessarily mean that you are gay and understanding your sexuality can take a long time. It is natural for your attention to jump between different genders and this may involve many different, possibly confusing feelings.
Coming to terms with your feelings
It is important that you take time to understand your feelings. If you are attracted to the same sex, or both sexes then take your time about ‘coming out’ (being open about your sexuality). It can be difficult coping with other people’s reactions to how you feel. It may help to talk to someone that you trust who will be supportive and understanding.
Telling your parents
Telling your parents about how you feel sexually can be daunting as you may be unsure about how they will react. If you are worried about how they will react then the one thing to remember is that you don’t need to rush to tell them. You can wait till you’re a little more independent or you may feel more relieved telling them sooner.
Help lines
- Colchester Gay Switchboard – 01206 869191
- London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard - 020 7837 7324 (A confidential helpline number you can call to talk about how you're feeling.)
Useful websites
LGBT Essex
Provides information and services for LGBT youth in Essex.
Colchester Gay Switchboard
Colchester Gay Switchboard work throughout North Essex to meet the needs of gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgendered individuals and those affected by HIV and AIDS.
University of Essex LGBT
The LGBT Society exists to provide support, tailored social events and a strong, active campaign group for students and staff of the University who self define as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender.
Terrence Higgins Trust
Terrence Higgins Trust has offices and centresacross England, Scotland and Wales.
Your Comments
Posted - 10:49, 18 Mar 2008
Thank you for commenting. We will take your comments into consideration when this article is reviewed. Regards Connexions
Posted - 10:51, 15 Jul 2008
We have updated this article and would like to thank you all for your comments as we have taken these on-board. Connexions
Posted - 01:05, 01 Apr 2009
Because Usually LGBT Teens Need Help About Coming To Terms And Understanding Their Sexuality. For Staright People It Is Relativley Easy Because There Is No Discrimination On Being Straight. You Don't See LGBT Teens Mocking Straight People So That Is Why Under Sexuality Its Talking About LGBT's. And Plus It Does Refer To Staright People As Well.
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Posted - 01:26, 12 Mar 2008
Why under the heading "sexuality" do you only have a page about homosexuality? What about the heterosexual young people? They can still have lots of worries and concerns.