Coming Out: When is the Right Time?
By Ellen Friedrichs, About.com Guide to GLBT Teens
Coming out is a big decision for teens, and there are many things to consider. Sometimes it can feel like there is a lot of pressure to come out. So it is important to remember that while coming out will be a great decision for some GLBT teens, for a variety of reasons, it just isn't the right decision for everyone.
Deciding to Come Out
Deciding to come out can be one of the more challenging life events for GLBT people. Coming out should be something a person does after careful consideration and thought, and not something a person feels pressured to do. Asking yourself if you are secure in your sexual orientation or gender identity, and if there is someone you know will be supportive, are two good starting questions. But there are many more things to think about as well!
Coming Out Tips
Should you yell your identity from the rafters, write a letter to your parents, or post a coming out announcement on your Facebook page? There's no one way to come out that will work for everyone. But there are some ways to come out that seem to work better than others!
Risks and Benefits of Coming Out
Coming out can be scary. Families and friends may react badly and homophobia is a real issue that a lot of teens face. As a result, there are many common concerns that teens have about coming out. However, coming out is also very freeing for a lot of folks. Plus, once you are out you can feel more confident meeting other GLBT teens and participating in GLBT community life.
