How do I come out as bisexual?

Coming out is personal and usually happens many times, to different people, over years. You do not owe anyone an announcement, and you do not need to be completely certain about every detail of your attraction before you share it. Bisexual simply means being attracted to more than one gender, not necessarily equally or in the same way.

Safety comes first. If telling family or people at school or work could put your housing, income or wellbeing at risk, it is completely valid to wait, or to come out first to people and communities outside that setting.

Many people begin with someone likely to be supportive, which builds confidence. Think about a private, unhurried moment, and what you would like from the other person, whether that is just listening, keeping it private for now or helping you tell others.

Keeping it short is fine. You might add what bisexual means to you, because people sometimes have outdated ideas about it. You do not have to answer every question, and it is fine to say: I am still working that out.

Bisexual people often meet doubts others would not face, such as it is just a phase, or assumptions based on the gender of a current partner. This is called bi-erasure, and it can be hurtful. Your identity is valid whoever you are dating, or if you are not dating at all.

If someone reacts badly, give yourself space and lean on people who accept you, including friends, chosen family and LGBTQ+ groups. Support lines for LGBTQ+ people exist in many countries if you want to talk things through.