Dear Teentalker,
I understand having that talk and coming out to family and friends can be a dreaded time. If you are feeling uncomfortable or are anxious, wait it out! A decision needn’t be made in a rush. I admire your courage as it takes a lot to stand up in spite the fears. A few factors for you to consider:
- Emotional readiness and strength is essential whether in acceptance or in rejection. Weigh and anticipate yet prepare yourself.
- Take pride in your honesty as it is applaud-worthy as I understand how much it requires to gather all that c.....
Dear Teentalker,
I understand having that talk and coming out to family and friends can be a dreaded time. If you are feeling uncomfortable or are anxious, wait it out! A decision needn’t be made in a rush. I admire your courage as it takes a lot to stand up in spite the fears. A few factors for you to consider:
- Emotional readiness and strength is essential whether in acceptance or in rejection. Weigh and anticipate yet prepare yourself.
- Take pride in your honesty as it is applaud-worthy as I understand how much it requires to gather all that courage
However, if you are financially, physically and emotionally dependent on your parents, you might want to consider putting it off to a time where you can be more independent or have the means to live on your own. Also are you emotionally ready to handle a negative response! As, if they are conservative it might not go down too well with them, in which case waiting it out is a good option.
If you decide to share it:
- Talking to friends about your feelings may be slightly easier and real friends will understand and embrace the true you.
- Since you are aware of your father’s reaction on the subject, consider telling one parent first who might be more receptive than the other.
- Consider the timing, as an inappropriate one will just make it more challenging.
- You may want to check on what information you’d like to share and not give specific details about the relationship.
- Anticipating their reaction will help you prepare.
- Assure them no matter what you are still their daughter and love and care for them hence being honest is part of taking the responsibility.
- Have a back-up plan and create an emotional support system.
- Give them resources and information regarding LGBTQ.
- Giving them time to process is key. If they do not come around, know you were honest with them and don’t have to pretend anymore. It just lifts a weight off of you.
If it’s just too terrifying, try talking to another trusted adult like a teacher, coach or counsellor. The counsellor too can serve as a mediator to help tackling the situation more effectively.
Remember whatever you decide whether holding it off or telling them, it will get better in time and you will feel lighter and more yourself. All the best. Just hang in there!
Hope this helps, if you have any other query do connect online for chat between 11am-8pm or drop us an offline message.
Regards,
Expert Teentalk India
