How do I deal with coming out to a Catholic family?

Know that it's not going to be easy. Know that you need support. And make sure to keep talking about your feelings as they come around. You can and will get through this for the better.

Coming out can be very difficult, especially to a Catholic family. The most important thing that you have to do, however, is make sure that it is safe for you to come out. If you are afraid that you will not be safe if you come out, you should consider waiting until you are independent and do not rely on your family for financial aid. Your safety is the most important part!

Make sure you are ready within yourself first. Please don't feel pressure to come out if others you know have come out or for any other reason. Make sure you feel safe and secure if you are worried that your family will cause you difficulties. Remember that there is an entire community on the internet AND in real life and that we are always here for you even if sometimes it's just in spirit. When it comes down to the moment itself, be sure to speak slowly and remember to breathe. Say as much or as little as you feel comfortable telling, and make eye-contact if you can. There are many families who will react in many ways that are opposite of each other, so if you are worried, reach out to a hotline or friends/supportive outside family for support, find someone to talk to. I believe in you.

It's never easy coming out to a family that totally or biblically disagree with homosexuality. You feel alone, you feel sick when its time to speak up, and sometimes you lose the words needed to express your truth. I'm here to tell you that you are not alone. There are millions of other individuals that deal with this exact issue every day. Some do not know how to deal with it and they result in the worst possible, but I assure you that this is not the end of the world and you will prevail. First, begin by writing your thoughts down on a piece of paper. It may be easier to express yourself through pen than expressing yourself through words. Next, take the time to look deep within and let yourself know that it is ok and it will only get better from here. If your family gets upset they will eventually move on to something else. Next, find someone that you can confide in and express your desires to come out to your family and ask them if they would come for moral support. Again if you can't express this verbally, then write a note to your family and have them read it. Once you have the courage, come out and you can finally live your truth. All the weight will not be off your shoulders, but some of it is better than none of it. Your family will hit you with bible scriptures, and they may even express to shun you. Just know that God loves you and in due time it will all get better. Prepare for the worst and aim for the best.

If you are still strong in your faith, mention that whilst coming out. Only do this if you are ready. Test the waters by bringing up recent LGBTQ+ events around you or the world.