Relationships

When people hear the word 'relationship' they often link it to romance and finding a boyfriend. But we all have different kinds of relationships in our lives, with our families, friends, colleagues and loved ones.

Often when thinking about the relationships you have, you forget the most important one – the relationship you have with yourself. Do you take time out to do things that you want to do? Making sure that you have time to relax and look after yourself is vital.

Having good friends of all sexualities is important but if you don't have any other gay friends try getting in touch with your local gay youth group. These are great places to meet people, have fun and find out more about what is out there for young gay men.

You may want to find a boyfriend but it's also a good idea to have mates around you who can support you through the good and bad times.

It’s not the end of the world if you don't get into a relationship straight away. It may take time for you to find out what you really want from one.

There are different types of relationship. You may choose to be in a monogamous relationship where you and your partner are committed to each other and don’t sleep with other people. Or you may decide you are not ready for commitment and want an open relationship, where you can see other people. Both types of relationship need to be negotiated to ensure that both partners are clear and happy with the arrangement.

Relationships can be a process of trial and error, you will have to find out what works best for you. They take a bit of work and you may have to compromise some of the things you want and negotiate others. Remember it’s a two way process and will take time to get right.

If you are in a relationship and have concerns about sex and sexual health, take a look at the information on the HIV and sexual health pages. You could also go to your local GUM (sexual health) clinic and talk to a health adviser who will be able to give you support and information. All services at a sexual health clinic will be confidential and free.

Ending a relationship can be a painful experience, but there is help available. If you go to a local youth group you could talk things through with a  worker or with the other guys who attend the group. They might have been through similar experiences, you don't have to handle things on your own.

This article was last reviewed on: 27/10/11
Date due for next review: 27/10/13