Lesbian is the word used to describe a girl or woman who is romantically and sexually attracted to other girls or women.
How do you know?
Some people know from a young age that they are lesbian, but some people are not sure until they get older and start thinking about relationships. Some girls also realise that they prefer girls although they have previously had relationships with boys. Being attracted to someone of the same sex is completely normal.
It is not at all unusual to feel attracted to someone of the same sex and many people experience crushes or very close friendships with someone of the same sex as they are growing up. For lots of people this does mean that they are lesbian, and they go on to have relationships with people of the same sex. For others, their feelings may change and they will find that they are more attracted to the opposite sex, or even both sexes.
Stereotypes
There are lots of stereotypes out there about being lesbian but it is important to realise that you do not have to change dramatically because of your sexual preference. After all, you are still you, whoever you are attracted to. The problem with stereotypes is that they can make you feel that just by being lesbian you have to look, dress or act in a certain way because other people expect you to.
Lesbians are often stereotypeas being like tomboys, or quite masculine (manly) and not like straight women. The truth is that all women are different, and no two women are interested in exactly the same things, whether they are bi, lesbian or straight! The most important thing is to be comfortable being yourself.
Prejudice
Unfortunately people who are lesbian do sometimes experience prejudice from others because these people think it is not normal to be lesbian. This is called homophobia, and it is important to know that people who think this are wrong. More importantly our society has systems in place to stop this sort of discrimination. Being lesbian is completely normal and you have the right to be who you are and have relationships without feeling that you have to keep it a secret.
Meeting other people
Some people find joining a lesbian club or society really helpful, especially when they do not know many other lesbian people, as it can give them the opportunity to meet like-minded people. Growing up as a lesbian woman is not always easy and it can be very helpful to meet other people who understand any worries or difficulties you may be having. Of course that does not mean that you can only have lesbian or bi friends, or that your straight friends won’t understand you. Groups for young women are run by qualified youth workers. These workers are happy to talk to parents too.
Support
If you want help and support about coming out, being lesbian, or anything around your sexuality, check out some of these organizations.
If you want to talk to someone, in confidence, about your sexuality, you can call THT Direct on 0808 802 1221.
You can find out about our youth groups around the country here: http://www.ygm.org.uk/home/comingout/youthgrouplistings
FFLAG – Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays
LGBT Switchboard
PACE – promoting lesbain, gay, bisexual and transgender health and wellbeing
The Gay Youth Corner
Gingerbeer – The Lesbian Guide around the UK
The Lesbian & Gay Foundation – Ending Homophobia, Empowering People
Queer Youth Network
Stonewall – advice and support for LGBT equality