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Coming out

'Coming Out' as LGB or T:

'Coming out' is the process of telling others about your sexual orientation. Coming out is not necessarily a one-off event - lesbian women, gay men and bisexual people may have to come out many times during their lives.  Some transgender people may hide how they feel or come out to varying degrees.  There is no one prescribed way to come out as lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans. Reactions to someone coming out can range from very positive, to less welcoming. You may feel comfortable being open about your sexual orientation with some people, but not with others. Coming out to certain people, such as family, friends or colleagues may be difficult and takes courage. Coming out is your choice and nobody should ever feel forced if they are not ready.

'Coming Out' Help and Support

Coming out is different and special for everyone and can take time no matter what age you are. It can take time for the individual, their family and friends to come to terms with. We have a selection of advice sources which you may find useful.

If you are young person coming out or questioning your sexuality visit
http://www.stonewallscotland.org.uk/help-advice/coming-out/advice-coming-out-young-people

If you are an adult coming out or questioning your sexuality visit
http://www.stonewallscotland.org.uk/help-advice/coming-out/coming-out-adult

If you are a young person transitioning or questioning your gender identity visit
http://www.stonewallscotland.org.uk/our-work/stonewall-research/health-wellbeing/transitioning-young-person

If you are an adult transitioning or questioning your gender identity visit
http://www.stonewallscotland.org.uk/our-work/community-resources/transgender/transitioning-adult

If you think your child is lesbian, gay or bisexual visit
http://www.stonewallscotland.org.uk/help-advice/coming-out/so-you-think-your-child-gay-lesbian-or-bisexual-0

Here is a guide to coming out which may help you
https://www.stonewallscotland.org.uk/system/files/coming_out.pdf

coming out

transA coming out guide for Transgender people.
https://www.lgbtyouth.org.uk/resources/?topic=Coming


biA coming out guide for lesbian, gay and bisexual people.
https://www.lgbtyouth.org.uk/media/1036/coming-out-guide-for-lgb-people.pdf

LGBT coming out stories

REMEMBER!
Take your time.
Think about what's best for you.
Trust those close to you.
Good luck!
And finally, don't rush.
Ask for support - there are lots out there.

For local support and advice contact:

LGBT Youth Scotland (Dumfries)
www.lgbtyouth.org.uk
DG1 Leisure Centre, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries DG1 2HT
Tel: 01387 255058

LGBT Plus in Dumfries
https://lgbtplus.org.uk/
Office: G1 & G2 Hestan House, Crichton Business Park, Bankend Road, Dumfries, DG1 4TA
Tel: 0800 020 9653 (free from landlines)