Gender and Sexuality…

What?

Both gender and sexuality come across as a spectrum. There are a variety of terms you might come across while looking into both gender and sexuality. 

Some examples of gender identity are;

  • Cis-man – you were identified as male at birth, and you still identify as male.

  • Cis-woman – you were identified as female at birth, and you still identify as female.

  • Tran-man – you were identified as female at birth, but you identify as male.

  • Trans-woman – you were identified as male at birth, but you identify as female.

  • Non-binary – you were identified as either male or female at birth, but you identify as neither.

  • Gender fluid – your gender identity changes regularly regardless of what you were identified as at birth. 

  • Intersex – this is an umbrella term that covers a variety of biological conditions that affect a person’s sex development. This can include differences both inside and outside a person’s body. This does not affect a person’s gender identity. 

Some examples of sexual identities are;

  • Heterosexual/straight – you are sexually/romantically attracted to the opposite sex.

  • Homosexual/gay/lesbian – you are sexually/romantically attracted to the same sex.

  • Bisexual – you are sexually/romantically attracted to both men and women.

  • Pansexual – you are sexually/romantically attracted to all gender identities. 

  • Asexual – you experience little to no sexual attraction regardless of gender.

  • Aromantic – you experience little to no romantic attraction regardless of gender.

  • Queer – once used as a derogatory term, it’s now being used by people wanting to reject specific labels of gender and sexual orientation/identity. 

Anyone can experience a mental health problem, but those that identify as LGBTQIA+ are more likely to develop problems like;

  • Low self-esteem

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Eating problems

  • Addiction problems

  • Self-harming

  • Suicidal feelings

Why?

It is important to recognise that being LGBTQIA+ does not cause these problems. These issues are likely to do with facing things such as;

  • Homophobia, bi-phobia, and transphobia

  • Stigma and discrimination

  • Difficult experiences of coming out, or fear of coming out

  • Social isolation, exclusion, and rejection.

How can I help?

It’s important to remember that embracing your gender/sexual identity can also have a positive impact on your wellbeing, such as;

  • Increased confidence

  • Improved relationships with your friends and family

  • A sense of community and belonging

  • The freedom of self-expression and self-acceptance

  • Increased resilience.

If you feel you need support due to any of the reasons above, feel free to get in contact using the form below.