Evan Rachel Wood recently spoke about coming out as bisexual – saying she felt “very confused” and “alone” while growing up.

The 26 year-old actress, who recently had a child with her husband Jamie Bell, first came out as bi in 2012. While appearing at a benefit for the Los Angeles LGBT Centre, she spoke about her struggle to understand her sexuality when she was younger.

“I remember growing up not knowing it was a thing – feeling very confused, feeling very alone,” she said.  “That is one of the reasons why I came out publicly – to help another struggling 12 year-old who is terrified – just to let them know it’s okay and that it is very real. Your trials and tribulations are just as real as anybody elses.”

The actress, known for her roles in HBO’s True Blood and critically acclaimed The Wrestler, said that after she came out she was disheartened at the lack of acceptance within the LGBT community.

“I certainly felt shamed from both sides – there’s this weird stigma about it and I’m hoping to, kind of, end that because so many people are bisexual.

“You should be who you are and proud.”