Sexuality

Summary

Sexuality is diverse, and there are many different types. It can take time to figure out the sexuality that fits you best. And your sexuality can change over time.
Coming to terms with your sexuality can be a very liberating, exciting and positive experience.
Sexuality is an important part of who you are. There is no right or wrong, it’s about what’s right for you.
Some people have a hard time accepting others who are different to themselves. If someone gives you a hard time about your sexuality, it’s good to talk to someone about it. You don’t need to deal with it by yourself.

WHAT DOES LGBTQ+ MEAN?

LGBTQ+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning and more. Even though people refer to them together, gender identity isn’t the same as sexuality.

Sexuality is often used to describe sexual and romantic attraction. But these aren’t always the same:

Sexual attraction is how physically attracted to someone you are, and includes whether you would like to have sex with them.
Romantic attraction is how much you’re emotionally attracted to someone.

You might feel both romantic and sexual attraction to the same people or these might be different.

It's natural to be confused about your sexuality or need time to work out who you are. Some people know who they’re attracted to from a really young age. For other people, it’s not so simple and can take a while to work out.

SEXUALITY DEFINITIONS

There are lots of types of sexuality and its okay if you don’t fit into just one. For some people their sexuality is fluid and can change over time.

Some common terms used to describe sexuality are:

Discrimination based on sexuality

Equality and freedom from discrimination are fundamental human rights that belong to all people.

In the UK it is against the law to discriminate against someone because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. However, discrimination can still occur.

5 things to remember about your sexuality:

Sexuality isn’t a choice.
It takes different people different amounts of time to understand their sexuality.
'Coming out' is different for everyone, but it can get easier as you start to tell more people.
There are lots of different types of sexuality.
Sexuality can change over time - this is OK

Helping someone struggling with their sexuality and mental health

If you are worried that someone you know has a mental health problem, look out for changes in their mood, behaviour, relationships, appetite, sleep patterns, coping and thinking. If these changes last more than a couple of weeks, talk to them about getting help.

A good place to start is their doctor, school cousoller or other trusted adult

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