How to initiate or approach same sex?

[Kenage]

I feel extremely awkward asking this but I feel I can in this forum. How do I initiate, find, approach ss to maybe live out my desire of curiosity? Is there somewhere, some place, sites? I have been struggling with these feeling since a child but due to society and religious norms, I have not been able to for fill this. I've been ready just haven't found how to. Maybe with another curious guy? I posted here because it is a sensitive issue for me. My doctor says it's a major factor in my depression because I'very surpressed this for most my life and now has become part of my mental health. Any suggestions and PM would be appreciated and welcomed, please no bashing.

[Jmerrick22]

I’ve been there. I’d say maybe start with any guy friends. Or this forum is a great place to . Have you ever done anything with a male before?

[Kenage in reply to Jmerrick22]

Not really

[Luke1973]

If you have access to professional counselling it may help, but coming to terms with your sexuality will certainly be important in trying to lead a happy life. A lot depends on where you live, the culture etc, and in some societies it is easier than in others.

[jimreilly]

Yes, there are dating sites, which sometimes function as just hookup sites but can be used for anything from friendship without sex, to hookups, to a search for a partner. They can get a bit raunchy depending on your sensibilities. Adam4Adam is one of them (some people will tell you something about themselves and others will just post dick pics or ass pics, so don't be surpirsed), another is Grindr. I'm sure other people could mention more of them, but those are two you can use for free to find other gay/bisexual/just curious men in your own area. Right now hooking-up is not the safest thing to do because of Covid (but there are plenty of people still doing it) aside from the usual uncertainty about meeting strangers and the possibilities of fake profiles (yes, there are more than a few). There is always the option to meet people you do not know in a public place, but right now so many public places are closed (here all bars and restaurants are closed except for take out food)! But it pays to meet in public, especially since you don't know the territory! Good luck, I wish you well with both easing your depression and your exploring.

[SonomaGuy]

I"m an out Gay Man and Polar Expedition Guide in a very conservative industry. Times have changed and it' much more ok to be open and out. I would really encourage you coming out to your self and to others. By living a double life you really risk people not trusting you.That said, I wouldn't recommend Adam4Adam as a starting point. It's a serious hook up site. I use Scruff both when home and traveling on the road to chat with local guys and ask for travel trip. Many are not looking to hook up but of course some are, but with covid I find that most of the guys are looking for community and great with just chatting. There are also Facebook groups and local community organizations. There will be LGBT organizations locally.

[jaglad]

From what you say you are not sure if you are gay or not, if this is the case I would suggest just talking. Your Doc is probably a good place to start as they seem to know you. If you are sure you are gay, just try talking to people, in most cities there will be a gay friendly bar or hangouts.With current restrictions online may be a good place to start. Take your time and get to know yourself and those that you meet.

Good luck

[BenShanghai]

Although scary and confronting, I took my first bold steps while traveling. With a little liquid courage, venturing into a gay bar and just allowing "life" to happen was my way. And be honest about it, especially if you feel you can't be in normal life. Any decent guy will respect and admire your story.