'Coming out’ is a major step for any LGBT person to take and can cause a huge amount of stress. Sometimes it helps to talk it over first with someone who understands how you are feeling and what may happen when you have taken that big step.

And that’s where Diversitay can help. If you’re contemplating coming out or even if you have already but you’re having problems as a result, give us a call on a Monday evening or write/email Diversitay at the address below. We don’t have a magic wand to make it all better but we’re happy to listen and talk the whole thing through with you. We never give advice or pressure you into doing something that isn’t right for you. Who you tell, when you tell and how much you tell is entirely your decision. We’ll try to make you feel that you’re not OUT there all on your own. In the meantime have a read of our Frequently Asked Questions…

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS...

Q : I’ve just realised I fancy someone of the same sex. It’s never happened before and I’m terrified. Does this mean I’m gay?

A : Why feel pressured into sticking a label on yourself? Sexuality can be a very complicated matter and many people will feel attracted to someone of the same sex at some point in their lives. Whoever you’re attracted to, it isn’t something you have any control over nor is it something to be ashamed of. You would probably feel better if you could talk about it to someone else. If you haven’t got a friend or relative whom you trust to be supportive, then give us a call on our telephone helpline.

Q : I’ve just come out to my parents and I’m having a terrible time with them. They’ve threatened to throw me out and I feel I have no one to turn to for help.

A : Your parents have just had a huge shock and will quite possibly be acting on impulse. Once they’ve had time to come to terms with what you’ve told them, things may settle down again. You can always suggest to them that they ring Diversitay and have a chat with one of our support workers who will help them to discuss their feelings about what has happened. But what’s really important right now is that YOU get support. If you are worried about being made homeless, help is available from a variety of sources. Contact Diversitay – we can provide you with names of organisations who can give you advice on accommodation and benefits available.

Q : I realised I was gay a few years ago but I’ve been too scared to do anything about it. I live in a wee village where there are no other gay people as far as I know. I just wish I could make some gay friends and then maybe I’d find the confidence to ‘come out’ but I can’t see myself walking into a gay bar on my own. How am I going to meet other people like me in a place like this?

A :Not an easy situation for you to be in but don’t give up hope. Chances are there ARE other LGBT people in your neighbourhood, probably feeling just as lonely and isolated as you are!
If you can access the Internet, there are lots of LGBT web sites where you can make contact with people, perhaps even some living in your area! Alternatively you could place an ad. in the gay press. See our list of links What’s important is that you don’t just suffer in silent misery. Give Diversitay a call and one of our support workers will discuss all the options there are available to you.

Q : For ages now I’ve been thinking about whether I should have a sex change. I’ve always felt really unhappy as a man but I’ve just pushed it to the back of my mind and got on with my life because the alternative seemed too difficult to contemplate. Recently though I realised I can’t go on like this any longer. I’m so mixed up and I don’t know where to turn for help.

A :Just admitting you need help is the first step, and there is help available. There are a number of groups specialising in Trans issues who can provide information, advice and support and we would be able to provide you with contact details. However you can also call us here at Diversitay and one of our support workers will have chat with you about how you are feeling and what action you might wish to take.