|
Post by lizardlou on Jan 18, 2020 22:43:15 GMT
Hello. Idk if this is the right place for me. I am a woman that has always been with men, but I have always been interested in women as well. I have always been shy about this interest, and when I was younger I divulged this to my then boyfriend who ended up using it against me in a form of shaming (he was very abusive, but that’s a very different story). I am now 37 and in a very emotionally stable relationship with a man that is very supportive of me and my quest to figure out my sexuality. I just don’t know where to begin other than admitting out loud, if that makes sense?
|
|
|
Post by Piltover on Jan 21, 2020 12:18:39 GMT
Hi there liardlou, Thanks for your post. I'd like to start by apologising for the delay in my response and say that this absolutely is the right place for you. This forum is for anyone who identifies as LGBTQ+, regardless of their situation. It sounds like you're great place to start doing some of that self-exploration. Having a supportive partner can make the process easier, with all the stability and emotional support that comes from a good relationship. As for your question of where to begin talking about your sexuality, this forum is a great start. It all depends on what you feel comfortable doing. You might find it beneficial to just chat on here for a while, or maybe talk to someone LGBTQ+ over the phone, or, if you're up for it, head out to some LGBTQ+ meetups. The community is full of compassionate people, many of whom have been through really similar experiences. Below I'm going to post links to a few resources I think might be helpful to you. You don't mention where you live, so I'm going to recommend services that operate nationally, or will allow you to find something local should you want to: Switchboard 0300 330 0630 - This is an LGBTQ+ helpline, which also offers webchat and email. It's 100% staffed by LGBTQ+ volunteers, so you can talk to someone else who's part of the community. You don't have to be in crisis to call and they will gladly talk with you about your situation. Might be a great first step? Support U - Another LGBTQ+ helpline offering support to LGBTQ+ people and their families Meetup - There are a tonne of LGBTQ+ groups on Meetup all across the country. These range from sports groups, to support groups. Maybe connecting with other lesbian / bisexual women could help you discuss your experience and explore your feelings? Drop ins - There are various LGBTQ+ charities across the country which offer community drop ins. Charities like London Friend (unsurprisingly in London) and LGBT Foundation in Manchester offer spaces, sometimes with counsellors and advisers where people can drop in and chat. Maybe this could be a good idea for you? I hope you find some of the above helpful. Do let us know how you get on, and of course, please keep chatting on here. We're a small but very welcoming community who are always here to chat when you need. Best, Justin
|
|
|
Post by lizardlou on Jan 26, 2020 18:59:47 GMT
Thank you so much for your reply...I actually live in USA. Is that still ok?
|
|
|
Post by Piltover on Jan 27, 2020 13:39:54 GMT
Yes that's absolutely fine though we're unable to recommend relevant services where you can receive support unless you're resident in the UK. Otherwise you're fine to keep using the forums.
|
|