Coming out

Telling people that you are lesbian, gay or bisexual is called coming out.

You don't have to tell anyone you're lesbian, gay or bisexual if you don't want to. It's up to you who you tell, but you might feel happier if you can be honest about who you really are.

Ultimately there is no right or wrong way to come out, do it the way you want to and the way you feel comfortable.

A good idea is to start by telling someone you really trust, and who you know will be supportive. It might also be helpful to get an idea about people's attitudes towards sexuality before you talk to them.

For more information on coming out visit: http://www.lgf.org.uk/coming-out/

“I hope my experiences of coming out will show a positive message, and that other people in a similar position and with feelings like mine will think, “he did it and is respected - Gareth who plays rugby in this macho world and, is very much a man’s man - then maybe i could do it.”

Gareth Thomas, Welsh and British Lions rugby player

Beth’s Story

“You shouldn’t worry about coming out. I remember being very scared about doing it but it turned out to be a very nice experience. I carefully chose the right people to tell, people who I knew wouldn’t judge me.  Just by doing this and being myself I changed my family’s views about gay people.” Beth Ditto, Singer

I came out when I was 15 but I knew way before then. I put off coming out for ages because already I got picked on for everything, I thought if people knew I was gay it would just be another stick to beat me with.

I went out with lads, it might have made other people happy, but it wasn’t making me happy. When I eventually came out, I was so used to getting remarks I just shrugged them off.

To be honest I got dragged out of the closet. I came out to someone I trusted and they totally betrayed me and spread it round the school.

I didn’t have it easy, but I had it a lot easier than some. I’m chuffed that I’m out and can be myself.

Kirsty, 19

Rachel’s Story

At school I got the occasional gay comment and I got bullied for everything else anyway. But when I got to college it was horrible. I was beginning to come to terms with my sexuality and hated it because of how much negativity was around.

I guess to people I looked like a lesbian. At first it was just the odd dyke comment, but then in lessons I got it more. People were saying gays were horrible, people wouldn’t work with me and I hadn’t even come out yet.

I lost my friends because of it. It might not seem like I had it tough but it made me hate myself and wish I wasn’t gay to make my life easier.

But I am now proud of being a lesbian and I’m stronger because of it. Never be ashamed of who you really are and always remember people do care. Be true to yourself and the rest will follow.

Rachel