forums are a good way to pass time and engage in discussions about things you love. so I don't really see why you'd feel ashamed of admitting to being a member at one.
although yes, tbh, telling people I've stuck to a pokemon forum for 5 years now is something which is kinda embarrassing for me. mostly because its pokemon, you know? most people here only know of the anime and have the childish image of it in mind and aren't aware of how amazing the games are. or how I've met some truly fantastic people here who keep making it hard for me to leave this place entirely.
but they won't understand. not that it stops me. i speak freely about it for the most part.