Why Do I Need Support?

Even if you are just questioning, curious, or exploring, it is valuable to find someone supportive as you figure out your gender and/or sexuality. In a heterosexist society, it is easy to devalue, misinterpret, or avoid meaningful aspects of yourself that appear to deviate from the “norm.”

You may think that you should be fine since so many other GLBTT* people have gone before you. Or you may believe that you’re immune to homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of oppression against GLBTT* people. But questioning your identity can be incredibly draining, and the impact may surface in other areas of your life. For example:

If you lack confidence or self-worth, you may choose sexual intimacy with someone who is interested in you but not in the condom or barrier you would like to use.

If you are not comfortable with your body or sexuality, and cannot open up to a health care professional, you may delay essential health care treatment such as STI testing, and develop long-term complications or illnesses.

You may not recognize how much your gender and sexuality are connected to other areas of your life, and ignoring such essential aspects of yourself may disrupt your sleep, appetite, and ability to focus or work.  Or you may begin to withdraw from your support networks.