It is usually the case that when people come out later in life, they feel relieved. They feel like a whole person because they are no longer hiding part of themselves from friends and family. The freedom can actually cause people to regret having not come out sooner.

Is information discussed at GLYS kept confidential?

Yes, unless we hear something that suggests that you plan to harm yourself or someone else.

How can we convey support to GLBT persons if we don't know who they are?

By not using or allowing people around you from using derogatory language, you will convey an attitude of acceptance which GLBT people will notice and appreciate.

Exactly what is "transgender"? What is the difference between being transgender and bisexual?

A transgendered person is someone whose gender identity or expression differs from conventional expectations of masculinity or femininity. Gender Identity is one's internal sense of being male or female, and for most people, there is no conflict between gender identity and their physical sex. However, transgendered people grow up questioning their gender identity, which differs from their physical sex. They feel they were born into the wrong physical sex.

A bisexual person is someone who is sexually and emotionally attracted to people of more than one gender.

What if I think I might be gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender?

Being gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender is not bad, but it can be difficult. For a teenager, questioning your sexual orientation can be an isolating experience. Fear, anger, sadness, and loneliness are common feelings. Often it is hard to talk to family and friends. It isn't easy to know with whom you can share your feelings. Try to find someone you trust to talk to. This might be the school nurse, a respected teacher, or an adult who has shown understanding about LGBT people. Calling GLYS provides an anonymous opportunity to ask questions. Visiting the GLYS Youth Support Group gives you a chance to meet other teens with the same concerns.

How do I know for sure if I'm bisexual?

The key to knowing whether you're heterosexual, homosexual, or bisexual is to pay attention to your feelings of attraction. Bisexuals are people who are attracted to more than one sex. It is not necessary to be equally attracted to men and women. You may not know what to call your sexual feelings or whether you fell sufficiently attracted to both sexes to consider yourself bisexual. And there is no behavioral "test" to determine whether or not one is bisexual. The good news is that you don't have to rush and decide how to label yourself right now. Our sexual identities develop over time. A good book to help with questions is "IS IT A CHOICE?" by Eric Marcus, available at the Rochester Public Library.