Sexuality

Generally speaking, human sexuality is how people experience and express themselves as sexual beings. The study of human sexuality encompasses an array of social activities and an abundance of behaviours, series of actions, and societal topics. Biologically, sexuality can encompass sexual intercourse and sexual contact in all its forms, as well as medical concerns about the physiological or even psychological aspects of sexual behaviour. Sociologically, it can cover the cultural, political, and legal aspects; and philosophically, it can span the moral, ethical, theological, spiritual or religious aspects.
We put ourselves into a category:
We give ourselves labels like:

• Lesbian
• Gay
• Heterosexual
• Transsexual
• Bisexual
• Etc.

These categories can be restrictive, as we attempt to fit a wide range of intricate and multifaceted experiences and emotions into one clear-cut category.
On the other hand they can be enormously liberating, offering a place and a sense of belonging to those who feel that they do not fall into the mainstream or widely accepted version of what our sexuality should be. It allows people the feeling of belonging to a group, and being able to draw strength and support from being part of that group.
Our sexuality is also influenced by:

• sexual abuse
• sexual exploitation
• the presence of conflict or war
• spirituality
• culture
• religion.

If you:
If you are feeling unsure, anxious, frustrated or desperate about your sexuality the best thing to do is to talk to someone about this. Many of the people who call LifeLine are concerned that feelings they have about themselves are not “normal”. Others phone because they cannot understand what seems to be “abnormal”. LifeLine receives calls from people who are struggling to come to terms with their sexuality, or struggling to be accepted because of it. Whatever the case may be, LifeLine counsellors are there to talk to you, to listen as you express your fears and concerns, to acknowledge your feelings and to provide support and understanding as you explore your sexual identity.
Phone LifeLine on 0861 322 322 or contact our local office (011) 421-0384  -  our  counsellors are there to listen, talk to you,  and understand your concerns whilst assisting you in understanding who you are.