There is an entire spectrum of sexuality! We’re talking about more than just gay, lesbian, and bisexual sexualities. There is transgender, transsexual, queer, questioning, pansexual, asexual, etc. The list goes on!
Sometimes though, not understanding your sexuality and/or your gender identity can make it even tougher being a teen. You might have a lot of questions, emotions, and feelings of confusion going on. Many of these questions might go unanswered and others might require more self-patience and self-exploration. As Danika, a TeenSource blogger, once said, “exploring your sexuality takes time and courage.” And the reason why is because there is no one path to discovery – everyone’s sexuality is unique and special. The more you discover about your sexual preferences, feelings, and identities, the more you learn about the person that you truly are – and none of these identities are wrong! They’re right and true to you.
Errr…sexuality? Gender identity? What do they mean?
Simply said: sexuality refers to whom you are attracted. This means who you’d like to receive romantic affection from and/or who you’d like to have sex with. It can also refer to the gender you’re attracted to. Gender identity refers to who you are, with what gender do you identify yourself, and/or how you would like others to see you. This can have a big impact on many areas of your life, from how you choose to dress, to how you behave, to your preferred gender pronouns (he, she, ze/zir), and/or if you even want to identify with a gender.
Remember, sexuality and gender identity are fluid, meaning you never have to make a solid choice about either of the two. In fact, you never have to identify in any certain way or in any group, so don’t feel pressured to rush this.
What does sexuality have to do with mental health?
Even today, sexualities and gender identities still follow the “hetero norm” and there isn’t as much support or acceptance for different identities as there should be. Some teens may feel like they can’t share their feelings of exploration with anybody and this could lead to feelings of depression, isolation, drug abuse, hopelessness and attempts at suicide.
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that youth sexual orientation is strongly associated with suicidal thoughts and behaviors, particularly in sexual minority youths.
Quick Facts:
- Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among 15-24 year olds. (CDC)
- LGBT youth are 4x more likely, and Questioning youth are 3x more likely to attempt suicide as their straight peers.
- LGBTQ youth families who reject their identities are 8.4x as likely to attempt suicide
If you are ever feeling helpless or have a friend who may be feeling helpless, the Trevor Project can help. Get help now.