How can I tell my parents that I'm gay?
Anonymous
on
Jun 6, 2019
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I brought up things like shows with gay people, or books and see how they felt about it. If they showed positive interest, I would say its safe to tell them. If they show negative interest, I would wait a little. Some kids never tell their parents that they are LGBTQ+, which can be hard to live with. But it is for the better for some kids just to keep it a secret. Another way is just to say, 'Hey, I like girls/boys, and you can't change that.' . Some parents may deny it in the start but they could get use to it.
colorfulMoon4041
on
Jun 27, 2019
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Be open and honest. You can’t change you so just embrace it and be proud. They are your parents and they love you so don’t be so worried. If you feel too nervous to speak to them write it down its sometimes easier, then approach them to talk about it afterwards. They may not necessarily react in the way you hope if it is a shock to them but give them time and make sure they are aware this is who you are and you need them to support you going forward. Speak from your heart and don’t be afraid
PreciousMelody
on
Jul 13, 2019
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Hi! Good to see you here.
This question is asked pretty often, but there doesn’t seem to be a real answer to it.
First of all, don’t be afraid. There is NOTHING wrong with being gay, so don’t feel anxious about telling people. There still is some stereotyping and there are prejudices about the LGBTQ+ community, but as we all know, prejudice and stereotypes are completely wrong.
Telling your family or friends depends on how understanding you imagine them and how much you truly trust them.
If you want to tell them and feel confident and ready, why not tell them straight and directly in a kind conversation? Wait for a good moment and just be yourself. „Hey mom, hey dad, I think I need to tell you something, you should finally know. I wanted to tell you now, so you won’t hear this from someone else. I want to tell you this personally because it’s very important to me. Maybe you’ve noticed by now...etc.“
Different option! How about writing a letter? Bring your feelings on paper and slide it to your parents. They will read it, have some time for themselves and come up to you afterwards, so you don’t have to take the first real step.
You’re creative? Write a song, draw a picture or write a story about your feelings! Why not be a bit more special and make this whole situation not that serious. ;)
Feeling super scared? Text them. A simple text might feel weird, but if you’re too overwhelmed by anxiety in order to not being able to speak, texting would be an option.
So again, don’t be afraid and feel confident. Stay positive and cheer up!
Big hugs x
TownTherapy
on
Oct 30, 2019
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First of all, it is really brave that you are thinking about coming out to your parents. Preparing yourself for the conversation is the first step, plan out what you want to say and how you want to say it. You also want to make sure you are picking an appropriate time. If your parents just got in a fight or a sibling just got in trouble it might not be the best time so try to wait. During the conversation it is important to educate them, even though you are telling them you are gay they might not fully understand what that means or how they can best support you so lay out all the guidelines and help them understand. They might say something offensive or hurtful without meaning too, don't take it personally. Remember at the end of the day you can't control their reaction. Own who you are and reach out for other social and professional support if you need help.
faithlove1111
on
Nov 27, 2019
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The only way is to be honest and sincere . Talk to them . Find a suitable time and place to do it. Expect shock, disbelief, anger , tears , or even silent treatment. Be prepared as some parents really find it difficult to even talk about a gay person especially if they have a conservative , religious or a strong traditional background . Practice patience and understanding and it will bear fruit for you in the long run. Give your parents some space and if they want to talk more about it, go ahead and talk to them.
Anonymous
on
Jan 23, 2020
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It is hard for you and your parents too. Tell them this doesnt change you as a person. Just your preferences are different. And you are still their son. Show them some videos and articles on it which are positive. Give them time. Dont immediately ask them to accept this.. they weren't prepared. Let them take their time to understand. Answer all their questions in a way that they will understand. But before you go prepare yourself too coz breaking the news will not be easy but always remember they are your parents and they love you.
Take care.
quietDay5507
on
Feb 19, 2020
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I have to admit that I still haven't told my own parents... yet. But I do understand how it feels to try to. I read a lot of the advice given on this website and I do think each post is so varied and so different, and each idea springs up with another smart solution. I felt lost. So many different things to consider... I feel like something different works with every other family because we are all different people in different lives. My advice is to try out something you think could work because if you think it could work, that's a whole lot of confidence for an individual coming out into the closet to what could be an unforgiving world. And try. If something doesn't work, try something else. And don't give up. Whatever you do, don't give up. Because we are all equal in the world and each of us belongs to someone else. There are billions of doors out there, waiting just for you. Of course you will have your regrets. And you will make mistakes. But that's all human. Put it behind you and explore. Try it your way.
Anonymous
on
Feb 21, 2020
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Before you tell them, Have a worst-case scenario plan. If you are young, and they kick you out of the house and refuse to support you or pay for college, be sure to have a disaster plan to fall back on. Where will you live? How will you get the money you need to live away from home in case you need to?Gather your supports. Assemble a network of sympathetic friends, relatives, and, if you are still in school, counselors and teachers — people to lean on if things get bad. Let them know you are planning on telling your parents, and that you'll need them to be available for temporary housing, a listening ear, and emotional support through the process.
Anonymous
on
May 22, 2020
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You can start off by letting them know that there is something you would like to discuss with them that is important to you. At this point, you will have their undivided attention, and then I would tell them. The way you tell them is individual to you, your life and the relationship you have with your parents. I would start off by also saying that it is important for you to be true to your authentic self, and with love and compassion I would continue to tell them about who you are. The way you convey your message across or in which format truly needs to be individual and based on the relationship you have with your parents.
sugarySunrise7828
on
Jun 11, 2020
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I would encourage you to tell your parents when you are ready, when you feel safe and in a meaningful way. You only get to come out once! You can buy or make a card that tells them, or maybe just bring your significant other home. Every situation is different. The most important thing is your safety, so please make sure that if you feel unsafe, you maybe enlist your school counselor or another adult as a witness. Other than that, I think be creative and come out in a way that celebrates your unique familial relationship and have fun with it!
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