Coming Out

Coming out is about accepting your own sexuality and feeling comfortable and confident about telling people that are close to you that you are lesbian, gay or bisexual.

There are no rules about when you should do this; some people come out when they are in their teens others after they have drawn their pension. You decided when the time is right for you.

Everybody should be able to enjoy the kind of relationship that makes them happy.

Your sexual identity is unique to you. It depends on your personality, your likes and dislikes. It's not just about saying you are lesbian, gay or bisexual, understanding your own sexual identity is more than that. It involves finding out what you are looking for in a partner, deciding what kind of people you are compatible with, working out what you want from a relationship and who you want to be with.

Being honest and open about who you find attractive is important if you want to feel good about your self. This is the first step towards coming out. This can be a difficult and very confusing time so it is important that you have the right support. There are a number of organisations and groups that you can contact for advice and support; these are included in the contact list.

Remember, your sexual identity is only part of your personality. Deciding that you are lesbian, gay or bisexual or straight does not change who you are. The most important thing is that you are happy healthy and able to be your self.