Questioning your sexuality or gender identity can be confusing and overwhelming, however it can also be an amazing experience to establish your own identity and understand what fits for you. At some point, you may want to “come out”, meaning that you want
Questioning your sexuality or gender identity can be confusing and overwhelming, however it can also be an amazing experience to establish your own identity and understand what fits for you. At some point, you may want to “come out”, meaning that you want to share your identity with other people. As with the other parts of your journey, the process of telling people about your sexual orientation or gender identity can feel intimidating, it can also be liberating to be open about your authentic self.
“Remember, the process for every person is different, and you have to do what you are comfortable with. Ultimately the most important opinion about how and when to do it is your own.”
Think about the pros and cons of your choice.
There is no right or wrong way to disclose, but you should give thought to your safety and well-being, and the potential benefits or risks associated with coming out.
Benefits may include living authentically and reducing the stress that can be associated with hiding who you are, getting closer to people who care about you and will support you, building a community of people who identify with you, being a role model for others to come out
Risks may include questions or shock from people who have known you, encountering people who don’t understand or do not accept your truth, shock, hostility or discrimination, potential violence, losing support from your parents or being kicked out of your home
*If any of these things happen to you when you come out it does not mean that your identity is wrong or that coming out was the wrong choice. It is only a reaction from people who do not understand or are unwilling to accept. You can’t control or change it, at least not right away. However, it does not change the value and importance of your truth or your v