Luckily the amount of discrimination has decreased as society progresses especially in the west over the years, but it does not mean that coming to terms with being gay is easy for everyone.
If you think you may be gay and are looking for some guidance and answers, you should keep reading though this guide.
What Does It Mean To Be Gay?
In general, a gay man is drawn to and prefers close connections with other males.
Sexual, emotional, romantic, and/or spiritual attraction and partnerships are all possible.
Some males may characterize themselves using alternative vocabulary, such as an umbrella word like ‘queer.’
Because the term “gay” may be used as an umbrella term, some women and transgender persons may identify as gay.
Different people may prefer different languages, and it is always best to inquire and respect their decision.
Some gay women refer to themselves as ‘lesbians.’ Those who are sexually attracted to two or more genders can be referred to as ‘bi’/’bisexual’ or ‘pan’/’pansexual.’
Indicators That You May Be Gay
Some males know from an early age that they are not attracted to ladies and prefer to hang out with guys.
Some people may have relationships and intercourse with, or even love, women before realizing they are attracted to males.
Some gay teenagers may grasp who they are straight immediately, whilst others may take longer to comprehend and accept their sexuality.
Above all, allow yourself to experience your emotions. Ignoring your sentiments makes it difficult to understand them.
Even today, there is a lot of shame and stigma associated with sexual orientation.
People who aren’t heterosexual are frequently pressured to suppress their emotions.
Despite the fact that each and every straight person is unique. Every gay person is unique, as are all people of all orientations – there are some questions you can answer to help clarify things for you.
Have you ever been attracted to or in love with another man?
Can you picture yourself being in a relationship or having sex with a man?
Do you feel uncomfortable when those around you talk about their experiences with girls?
When you have sexual dreams or fantasies, do they involve men?
Do your feelings towards men feel different than those towards women?
If you answer ‘yes’ to these questions, then there is chance you might be gay and should spend more time in learning about what it means to be gay and see if you still resonate with it.
Many gay and straight people, however, develop crushes on a favorite instructor or a friend’s elder brother. Your best friend might be your closest relationship.
It does not imply that you are gay. Similarly, while investigating your sexuality, an encounter with someone of the same sex does not imply that you are gay, lesbian, or bisexual.
It’s not always evident who you’re sexually attracted to and who you’re just drawn to as a person.
Coming Out As Gay
Coming out is the process of embracing your sexual orientation, deciding how open you want to be about it, and informing others who care.
You are not required to come out if you do not want to, or to be upfront about your sexuality to everyone.
If you do decide to come out, it is critical that you prioritize your safety.
The only individual who understands the genuine ‘answer’ to sexuality concerns is the person themself.
Similarly, only that person can determine how long the procedure will take. It may be simple and quick for some, but it may take considerably longer for others (even years in some cases).
Many people who identify as same sex attracted originally identify as bisexual or not primarily heterosexual.
The inverse may also be true, with some persons initially identifying as gay or lesbian and then as bisexual.
Finally, the process of recognizing one’s sexuality may take the form of coming out – embracing and openly identifying as same-sex attracted.
Coming out, like other parts of defining one’s sexual orientation, is a highly individualized journey with no one-size-fits-all timeframe.
Some individuals come out gradually, maybe first to those they trust and feel most comfortable with, whilst others are more ‘public’ about it all.
Choosing To Avoid Labels
Some people prefer not to define themselves, and many people’s sexual orientation and identification change over time.
Other titles individuals pick for their sexual identity include ‘queer’ and ‘pansexual,’ and you may discover that one of these other identities feels more comfortable to you.
Practicing Safe Sex
It is critical to take precautions to avoid contracting HIV or other STIs during sex, as the risk is higher for males who have sex with men than for other persons.
This is because the anus lining is more fragile than the lining of a vagina and hence more vulnerable to harm.
If you’re going to have oral or anal sex, the best approach to protect yourself is to always use a condom.
Although they cannot be guaranteed, condoms are incredibly effective when used properly.
Oral intercourse increases your chances of contracting herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV.
As a result, condoms should be used during oral sex done on a penis.
Finding Support
Finding individuals who will encourage and support you on your path might make it simpler.
Social networking has helped LGBTQ youth to connect and locate other LGBTQ youth.
It may be challenging to find community at first, but it is critical to feel linked to and supported by a group that understands you.
Many people write blogs or have YouTube channels where they share their experiences. There may also be groups at your school or on campus with whom you may connect.
Summary
It can be a very hard time when you are questioning your sexuality but remember that you are not alone and there is a lot of support for you out there if you feel you are struggling.
You should also keep in mind that there is no textbook way to be gay and you do not have to tick every box in order to be defined as gay. You also do not have to label yourself at all if you do not feel the need to.
Hello, my name is Gay Worlley - no, really - and I love learning about all things queer. I am also a qualified gardener and enjoy traveling in my spare time.
I love sharing my travel stories with anyone who will listen, and now I want to share them with the world through my new website! Not only that, but I want to inspire others and teach you about LGBTQ+ travel, queer media, pride, and much more.
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