Are you afraid to tell to your parents you're gay? Coming out is not a piece of a cake. But once you have told the truth, it will set you free. Now more than ever, gays and lesbians are coming out to their parents-and they're doing it when they're quite young. There is no right or wrong in telling your sexual orientation to your parents.
Coming out is a good thing, not only for you but for the people around you. According to Psychology Today, some research findings suggest that for openly gay kids, having a good relationship with parents is good for their mental health and self-esteem, and may inoculate them from suicidal feelings, substance abuse, and risky sex.
So, how to tell your parents you're gay? Below are things to consider.
Know the right place and right time. Each family can have a different time for conversation. Knowing what time your family can have the right talk is better than trying to create a moment. Sometimes events may make this choice for you. When something is on your mind, it can build up to such a point that it simply spills out. Let it happen.
Say the right words. There are no standard or exact phrases or words for telling your parents about your sexual orientation. But you can start by saying something that a fear has forced you to keep things hidden. You can throw some hints at first and let them get things straight. If your parents have already speculated whether you are lesbian/gay and question you about it, that is probably the easiest way for the subject to come up.
Be prepared to their reaction. Could you handle it emotionally if they had a negative reaction? Don't do it if you haven't developed a tough enough skin to hear initial statements. In fact, other parents can be too harsh. But having a worst case scenario plan can save you. If you will be kick out of the house, where will you live? Who will you run into?
Find a support system. Gather your friends, relatives, counselors and close teachers. 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.
Be patient. Acceptance, especially in this instance, does not happen overnight. Other parents might not react or give their response after you told. It may take days or so. What you can do here is to show them that you are sincere, and you are truer than before.
Some parents are not worried about their kids being gays or lesbians. They are worried about where their kids life could be leading to after they went out. Other religious parents are afraid to see their kids cross dressing and wearing things not suitable for them. But, reassure them that you are happy and healthy.
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