Hi! I’ve recently come to terms with the fact that I might be non-binary. On one hand, I feel legitimately relieved that I’ve found a label that seems to fit me, but on the other hand I don’t know how to go from here. How do I tell my family? I have a tendency to be somewhat dramatic about things, but I want to be taken seriously and be supported. I’m having extreme anxiety over this and I have absolutely no idea of what to do. Can somebody help me with this?
CONSIDER THIS:
- Feeling misunderstood by your family can make you feel uncomfortable and alone. You are brave for being yourself even though your family may or may not understand you.
- The more people understand something the less they can be afraid of it. You can try gathering your family together and explaining to them what non-binary means and how you feel. Tell them about what it means to you to be non-binary and why it makes you feel better about yourself.li>
- You can explain to your family how being non-binary can benefit them in a positive way. For example, maybe they see that you’re unhappy but identifying as non-binary will make you feel like you belong more.
- Before you talk to them, it may be best to write down ideas on what you want to say and how to speak to them.
- Be prepared for a negative reaction. Not everyone is accepting of different ways of thinking and new ideas. Think about how you can still be positive even if your family doesn’t agree with you. For example, becoming more spiritual may help you through tough times. Head to the Teen Central website and click the Learn tab then Spirituality to learn more. Some spiritual activities that may help you if you need them are prayer, yoga or meditation.
- If the situation becomes negative and you need someone to talk to go to the Teen Central website and click the Help tab to call one of the hotlines.
CONSIDER THIS:
- What are some of the many ways being yourself can benefit you now and in the future?
- If your family doesn’t accept you in what ways can the situation make you a stronger person?
- Can you see the positive side of things whether they come out the way you want them to or not?
