When a loved one approaches you and tells you that they are gay, bisexual, questioning or a lesbian, family members first reaction may be excitement, anxiety or anything in between. Some parents and relatives take the news of a child coming out of the closet as alarming because they themselves have never felt those feelings.
A parent’s confusion can cause a child to feel isolated and alone with their feelings. Not all family members, however, respond to their children coming out as LGBTQ as a negative. Some parents feel proud of their child and their courage or feel relieved their child was able to trust them with such a secret. No matter how a parent may feel, these are some beautiful ways to support the family members in your life that are LBGTQ.
- Let them know that they are not alone.
- Show appreciation for the strength and courage it takes to come out.
- Expand your knowledge of LGBTQ issues.
- Understand the importance of your support.
- Don’t try to change your family members sexual orientation or gender identity.
When an adolescent comes out, there are many mixed emotions that can follow. Speaking with a licensed therapist can make transitions and mixed emotions simpler to understand. At Exult Healthcare we respect every person’s sexual identity, and we encourage all those in need to call 469-714-0006 and schedule an appointment today.
Sources
Caitlin Ryan, David Huebner, Rafael M. Diaz & Jorge Sanchez, Family Rejection as a Predictor of Negative Health Outcomes in White and Latino Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Young Adults, 123 Pediatrics 346, 346 (2009).
Caitlin Ryan, Stephen T. Russell, David Huebner, Rafael Diaz & Jorge Sanchez, Family Acceptance in Adolescence and the Health of LGBT Young Adults, 23 J. Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing 205, 210 (2010).
Written by Aly Bowles – Social Media Coordinator
