Sexual Minority is defined as a group whose orientation sexually, sexual identity or choices differ from the majority of the people. It differs from what is considered as a Normal sexual orientation in the society. It also includes transgenders, the third gender or intersex orientation.

The most important term here is Sexual Orientation.

What do you understand by sexual orientation?

Sexual orientation refers to a consistent pattern of romantic, emotional and/or sexual attraction to a particular gender or both genders. This orientation is a major source of a person’s sense of self and identity. Research shows that it can range anywhere from being attracted only to the opposite gender to exclusive attraction to the same gender.

• Three categories of Sexual Orientation are:
• Heterosexual i.e, having romantic, emotional and sexual attractions to the opposite sex;
• Gay/Lesbian i.e, having romantic, emotional, and sexual attractions to the same sex; and
• Bisexual i.e, having romantic, emotional and sexual attractions towards both the genders.

Sexual orientation has nothing to do with biological components of sex and gender or the genetic predispositions associated with being a man or a woman. It is also different from the gender identity and social gender roles. It is not only an individualistic characteristic like biological sex, age or gender identity. Sexual orientation can be expressed through simple behaviors like kissing, hugging or holding hands.

Psychological Issues Faced by the Not so Common Sexually Oriented

Homosexuality is not a mental disorder but the associated conditions of acceptance, social discrimination, bias and stress that comes along with it is a matter that disturbs the mental health of an individual. Typically a person’s sexual orientation emerges anywhere between middle childhood and early adolescence. These patterns of romantic, emotional and sexual choice may present itself without a sexual experience.

A person can be celibate and still know what his sexual orientation and choices are. What people experience regarding their sexual orientation is entirely different for each individual. Some people know that they are lesbian, bisexual or gay long before they actually get into a relationship with other people. Some engage in sexual activity with the similar sex or different sex partners before they are able to assign a clear label to their sexual orientation.

Claiming the sexual identity may be difficult for many people as it is often a very slow process.

How can Therapy Help?

Mental health is often a matter of concern among the LGBT people owing to the huge discrimination and bullying faced by them.  The most difficult thing for these people is to “Come out”. It includes self-awareness of their sexual attractions, disclosing to a few people, then disclosure to a large group or society and Lastly identifying oneself with the LGBT community. This coming out has the risk of prejudice and harsh discrimination associated with it. It is not easy to get over with so many issues at all levels alone.

Therapy also helps in

• Accepting your orientation sexually
• Coping with the reactions of people around you
• Getting over Gender dysphoria(Feeling that your body does not reflect your true gender)
• Transitioning from present to the desired gender state
• Low confidence and self-esteem
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Depression dues to long-term bullying
• Dealing with hostility and rejection from friends and family

Don’t suffer alone in silence.  Being more open about your choices and sexual orientation will buy you a better mental health.