Alex's Answer

Thanks so much for reaching out to Ask Alex.   

 

We understand it’s not always easy to share how we’re feeling or what is going on for us, but we also know how important it is to talk about it. You mentioned that you are bisexual and are slowly starting to accept it, and you wanted to check if there was anything wrong with being bi.

 

Learning about your sexual orientation and gender identity is a significant part of every young person’s life. For some, it is a relatively straightforward path, but for others, it can be a difficult one to navigate. Just to clarify, a bisexual person is someone who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to more than one sex, gender, or gender identity, though not necessarily simultaneously, in the same way, or to the same degree.

 

You have the right to express yourself through talking, writing, painting, singing, or in any other way, as long as it does not disturb or offend other people. This right includes expressing yourself sexually. In expressing ourselves, sometimes our close family or friends may question or may not accept who we are, and this is not your fault.

 

We might need to take some practical steps to help other people accept who we are. Some of these ways could include:

 

1. Setting Boundaries 

As painful as it may be, it is important to emotionally distance yourself from people who refuse to acknowledge who you are. Remember that their behaviour is not your fault, and it is not your responsibility to change to make them feel more comfortable. If you want to, explain why you need space. Perhaps someday they will realise their mistake and you can reinstate the relationship you once had with them.

 

2. Looking after your mental health

Even if you are happy and relieved about embracing your gender identity, experiencing a backlash from friends and family can be devastating. It is important to ensure we are accepting of ourselves while bringing others along in the process.

 

3. Exploring how you’re feeling 

This could be done creatively through writing, singing, music, dance, or poetry – or by talking to a trusted adult or counsellor who can help you make sense of what is happening in your life.

 

For more support, visit www.teni.ie and www.belongto.org.  You can also contact Childline 24 hours a day by calling 1800 66 66 66 or chatting with us through our webchat service by clicking on the purple Messenger circle at www.childline.ie.

 

We hope everything goes well for you.

 

Take care of yourself, and know you don’t have to go through anything on your own,  

Alex