So I’m 23 and for a while, I have been contemplating taking my own life because I feel like my parents won’t understand that I am transgender and that I don’t want to be a girl and that I am stuck in the wrong body. I feel like I’m suffocating. How do I come out to them? I struggle with communicating with them.
HELP YOURSELF:
• First and foremost, if you are having immediate thoughts of wanting to harm or kill yourself, please contact the National Suicide Lifeline for support 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-8255 or the Crisis Text line. You can get instant support just by texting “HELLO” to 741741. What you are going through can be very overwhelming, just know that you are not alone. Don’t ever wait, there is always someone around to listen.
• Secondly, thank you for making yourself vulnerable and sharing your story so openly with the Teen Central community. Your gender identity and sexuality is only your story to tell, no one else’s. Coming out to anyone can be one of the hardest things you can do.
• Teen Central.com has many resources dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community. Under the “Learn” tab there is an entire section devoted to information regarding LGBTQ+. This info could be helpful to you if and when you decide to communicate with your parents. Remember, it is your story to tell, when you are ready. Check it out.
• If you are struggling to communicate with your parents, is there anyone in your life that you feel safe with to talk to about your gender identity? Think about it. Who can you trust with your personal information? A best friend? Someone positive in your life? A supportive peer or adult? Just getting those feelings out to someone may feel like a weight off of your shoulders. Ask that trusted and safe person to help advocate for you. Remember that coming out can be an amazing experience to establish your own identity and understanding who you truly are.
CONSIDER THIS:
• There may be people in your life who may have some not so great reactions to your true self. This type of rejection can have a big impact on you emotionally. It is important to prepare yourself for that initially. What coping skills can you use during this time? What are some things that bring you comfort when you are feeling overwhelmed?
• Have you ever tried journaling? It may seem simplistic, but writing your thoughts and feelings down can help map out how you want to communicate with your parents. Almost like writing a script for your story. Plus, you can weigh the pros and cons of coming out. What are some possible outcomes you might face? Getting those thoughts and feelings out on paper can be very freeing.
• Take some breaths, find a quiet space, and let your thoughts leave your mind. Things can seem overwhelming, but remember you have the right to feel safe and supported in your true self.
