If you have any friends or family that are part of the LGBT+ community, consider telling them first. I hope that if you’re currently struggling to discuss your sexuality with other people, these tips will help you. Instead, I’ve thought about what advice I would give to my younger self. But, it was difficult to remember what it was like when nobody knew that I was gay. I’ve thought a lot about the best advice I could give for discussing your sexuality with others. There was a huge sense of relief, followed by a sense of dread and uncertainty as to what the future might hold. I can remember all of the emotions I felt when I told the first person in my life - my best friend. These are but a few of the thoughts that were constantly on my mind for years before I decided to let people know that I’m gay. Will my family and friends still speak to me? Will I be treated differently at work? Will my life be the same as it is right now?
Deciding whether or not to start these conversations is a very personal choice. But, for people in the LGBT+ community it can sometimes feel difficult to share this with other people.
Our sexual orientation is an important part of who we are. Here, Lewis Harvey, Clinical Engagement Lead for Bupa UK and Global, shares his personal experience and offers some tips for people thinking of talking about their sexuality with those close to them.