If you need help in talking to someone about your sexuality, there are groups or counselling sessions you can attend to speak with likeminded people. Find out if there is a group in your area where you can talk about your issues, concerns and emotions – you’ll most likely find these groups advertised in the phone book, at GP surgeries or at sexual health clinics. It is entirely up to you whether you decide to tell others about your sexuality – though it is perfectly normal to be gay, lesbian or bisexual, some people don’t understand and this can be difficult to deal with when you’re coming out.
Coming out can be a difficult thing to do, particularly if you’ve not expressed these feelings to anyone before, so you may want to speak to others first who’ve experienced the same thing and can help you decide the best way to do it. This is the same for your feelings towards having sex – you’ll be experiencing the same anxieties about engaging in sexual activity as everyone else, whether you’re gay, straight or bisexual. It’s a big decision to make and one you should only act on once you feel confident that it’s the right time for you. Everyone feels ready at a different time, so don’t feel the need to play up to peer pressure. If you do decide to have sex, be sure to use contraception to avoid unplanned pregnancies or contracting a sexually transmitted disease – you can get free condoms from a sexual health clinic.
If you’re being bullied because of your sexuality, it’s vital that you tell someone. This is known as homophobic bullying and no-one has the right to bully you because of the way you choose to live your life – this can take many forms, from verbal abuse to physical violence, and is unacceptable. Schools have a legal obligation to ensure that any homophobic bullying is dealt with, so be sure to speak to a teacher, a parents or a counsellor who can help you deal with any concerns you may have.