Acceptance issues

[Aguila1794]

Hi, I’ve known I’m gay for several years now, but I’m still struggling to accept it. Can anyone relate?

[Vonus5591]

have you got therapist that can help you understand your emotions?

I am heterosexual but sometimes dealing with myself and emotions are difficult as lot of trauma and other issues. I would like to think when it comes to important things I can talk or confide in someone

And it’s confidential which makes it ideal

It can help you explore deep down thoughts, conscious and unconscious which may be causing you reactions

[Aguila1794 in reply to Vonus5591]

I’m trying to find a reputable therapist. Thanks for your reply and peace be with you.

[Vonus5591 in reply to Aguila1794]

Wishing you the best

[Transrightsnow in reply to Aguila1794]

Hi there, I really recommend Pink Therapy website and the LGBT helpline (free). Saying this as someone in the community myself who has experienced the power of self acceptance through having an LGBT+ counsellor, and a peer group (I really recommend connecting with other LGBT+people-it's so essential for our mental health. Take care.

[cashew78]

I can't directly relate as I'm not in the same boat. I was present as much as possible when my queer buddies (sorry, I know that term is problematic) started either coming out in school, or got sick of feeling shamed into invisibility by those around them. If you have a good friend or two or 10 who can just be with you when your doing groceries, watching a dumb movie, or just having a coffee at a cafe then I suspect the acceptance of yourself by yourself will come along so naturally that you won't notice it at first. Why would you?

Your friends already accepted you long ago. Why would you argue with such wise people? 😁 Good luck.

[Aguila1794 in reply to cashew78]

That’s very well said advice. Thanks a lot and peace be with you.

[Rnfrds10]

I went though this when I was younger (18-22) 53 now. I was difficult trying to fit in dating girls, listening to my straight friends say homophobic things. I eventually broke down, told my family thisr response was “lee we knew we were just waiting for you to say”. I did move away from my area and embraced who I was. I didn’t lose a family I gained another that understood exactly who I was. I know it’s cliche but for me it did get better. I came out in 1992. I think now it’s easier than back then. Embrace your true self sooner rather than later life may be one easier.

[Midori]

My son is bi, and I have several gay friends; I don't personally have a problem with it, although I'm not sure I could add anything useful as I am in UK, and we, in the main are very accepting of neurodivergence, but I think you may be in the USA?

Cheers, Midori

[Aguila1794 in reply to Midori]

I am in America. Never heard of neurodivergence, I like it. Thanks for your reply.

[Roxylox]

My daughter is bi. I think she struggled with it for a while. She has been dating a girl now for over a year. She did go to some therapy sessions recently. Thankfully she is very happy. I wish you every luck and future happiness.

[Aguila1794 in reply to Roxylox]

I can’t really date a guy because of where I live. People are too judgmental here. That’s good for your daughter though.

[Aguila1794 in reply to Roxylox]

Plus I can’t **** one because of HIV risks. It kinda defeats the purpose.

[Roxylox in reply to Aguila1794]

Any chance of you moving somewhere else anytime soon, or are you too young? Don't condoms cut down the HIV risks?

[Daisydomuch in reply to Aguila1794]

Regards to the Hiv risks, protection should be used please dont let someones diagnosis stop you dating.

I have been Hiv positive 25 years and most of that time on meds ive remained undectable and ive been with my current partner for 24 years he is also long term positive.

Being positive is not the death sentence it once was.

[Midori]

You're Human, and that is what is important. Don't beat up on yourself, go with the flow and don't be ashamed of being who you are.

My son is Bi, and both he and I are comfortable with it.

Try to become comfortable with Who You are, because there isn't another You anywhere on Earth. If you feel loud and proud, be it, express yourself, if you prefer to be more discreet, that's fine, but find the You inside and express that in your own unique way. Nobody has the right to tell you you are wrong.

Personally, I'm so straight you could use me as a ruler, but I accept people as they are. I'm also very old, 76 to be precise, and I've been around the block a few times. Today's Tee Shirt says Running on Coffee, Chaos and Cursing and my aim is to make folk happy.

Cheers, Midori