In a world where heterosexual male/female relationships are the norm, it can be very difficult to figure out your sexual orientation. Add in factors like family expectations, values you’ve had since you can remember, and religious/societal views it can be enough to make your head spin! In order to decide your sexual orientation first, it may be helpful for us to define some terms that you may not have heard before. Most of us know that the acronym LGBTQ+ stands for Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender, and Questioning/Queer.  but what do all those letters that come after mean anyway? The plus is an ever-growing list of other orientations to fit everyone’s uniqueness!  

Persons in the LGBTQ+ community can face inner and outer battles to either express their true selves or fake a “normal” lifestyle to appease those around them. They might avoid fear and ridicule in the moment, but risk further damage to their overall mental health from hiding their true identity.