article page

What is being gay?

If you are gay you are romantically and sexually attracted to people of the same sex. The term gay usually refers to boys and men. Girls who are attracted to girls or women are known as lesbians. 

How do I know if I’m gay?

• Some people know from a young age that they are gay.
• Some people don’t know until they get older and start thinking about relationships.
• Some boys realise they prefer boys although they have previously been attracted to girls.

Is it normal?

Growing up being gay is not always easy and you might feel worried about your sexual orientation. Being attracted to someone of the same sex is completely normal. Remember, it is your sexuality and it is up to you how you define it.

What if people treat me differently?

Sometimes people discriminate against gay people. This means they may be unkind or have ideas that are wrong, for example some people think gay men are feminine and that it is not normal to be gay. This is called homophobia, and it is important to know that people who think this are wrong. You can get help with homophobia at Young People's UK Actionline.

Can I get married and have children if I’m gay?

People often think that being gay means you can’t have a family or get married. In fact, this is not true and plenty of gay men and women have children naturally, foster or adopt. Also, since 2005 gay couples have been able to enter into civil partnership, giving them most of the same rights and responsibilities that married straight couples have.

Who can I talk to?

Some people find that joining a group for gay, lesbian and bisexual young people really helps. This will give you the chance to meet other gay young people who will probably understand any worries or problems you might be having. There will also be qualified youth workers you can talk to who can help you deal with a range of issues like coming out, coping with bullies and safer sex.

You can also talk to a Talksafe Counsellor or Peer Mentor. 

You can find a list of youth groups Queer Youth Network.

Links

YGM website

NHS Choices: Am I gay, lesbian or bisexual?

Queer Youth Network

Last review: 31/05/11 - Next review: 31/05/13