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How can I tell my parents that I'm gay?

262 Answers
Last Updated: 06/11/2022 at 8:37pm
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Danielle Gonzales, PsyD

Psychologist

Hello! My name is Dani, I am a Psychologist and registered Psych Assistant. I have a passion for helping a different types of clients from all diverse backgrounds!

Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
July 30th, 2015 5:15am
Arrange a calm meeting, and explain to them that this is what makes you happy in life. Assure them that this choice has not been easy for you to share with them, as well as how much their support would mean to you.
Anonymous
July 31st, 2015 1:18am
It is hard to get parents to understand the sexual nature of their children. But know that your parents don't want to see you go through any pain of being "different". Try to get them to understand the pain you would go through by not being your true authentic self. By being something other than who you truly are on the inside would cause you even greater pain. By being your true self it is the only way you can truly love yourself.
Lucien118
July 31st, 2015 1:28am
In any way that you feel comfortable and safe. Everybody's parents are different and will react to things in different ways. You know your parents well and, while you might be nervous or scared about revealing that you're gay, it's likely that you have expectations of how your parents will react. Some parents may need a bit of time to react to the news, if that's the case, don't get worked up about it. It can come as quite a shock to some. Ultimately, just be honest. You can't control how your parents react.
MusicMan
July 31st, 2015 3:52am
You should never feel bad about who you are. You are equally as important as everyone else and you shouldnt be ashamed. Sit your parents down and just tell them "Im gay". Explain to them how you felt when you first accepted it and ask them for their support.
watermelon9
July 31st, 2015 1:14pm
You need to sit them down and you ask that they'll love you no matter what - which they more than likely will as they are your parents. You then proceed to tell them how you feel. Start of lightly so that they can understand and then ask if they have any questions. Don't feel afraid and more importantly don't hold back. Society these days consists of a greater gay community than ever and it is absolutely fantastic. You should feel proud to tell them, because you know who you are - a lot of people are still figuring it out. Good luck :)
ahistoryimake
July 31st, 2015 3:53pm
Its hard to answer this question as everybody has different relationships to their parents. Make sure you choose the right time to tell them, so... not when they are tired or stressed out with something else. Make sure its in a quiet place where you can actually discuss with your parents and don't resort to anger should their reaction not be what you were expecting. Do not walk away, let them express their feelings then you express yours. Your parents are your parents, they will love you no-mattter what even if its hard for them to accept what you are saying straight away.
abileft99
July 31st, 2015 6:50pm
It's best to be open with them. Sit them down and let them know you have something to tell them. Don't drag it on, just come out with what you want to say and they should understand and support you.
Anonymous
July 31st, 2015 11:58pm
I would ask them first what they think about the idea. I would sit them down at a table and make sure they're listening. Then, you can just tell them exactly how you feel. If they don't like it, you move on. You can't change who you are.
BeautifulSoul80
August 1st, 2015 9:46pm
In my experience, it's best to have a practice conversation with a friend or counselor prior to having a difficult conversation with someone else. In general, whatever the topic may be, practicing a difficult or emotionally charged conversation can be a helpful exercise. The practice conversations allows me to stumble, find the most comfortable words to articulate my message, and answer potential questions. So using a sports analogy - when it's game time - I'm more prepared. By having practice, I've worked through some of the emotions and can have the conversation with less emotional charge clouding my judgment. It also allows me to monitor my feelings and create a space for whatever reaction the other person will have, and remind myself to not get too attached to a certain response. Whatever the topic of conversation, preparing myself - both emotionally and organizing my thoughts - has been effective. The truth is - all I control is what I say and how I respond to what is said.
Anonymous
August 2nd, 2015 4:17am
sit down and ask them what they think abut gay marriage and gay people. and if they are okay with it, apporach the subject slowly.
eternalWriting37
August 2nd, 2015 2:14pm
First off, breathe. * If your parents have gay friends and/or are typically understanding people? Just do it. Just tell them. Sit them down and let them know. Typically for most other situations, where their reactions could really go any way? Write a letter. Why? Because your nervousness could hinder your ability to get everything out that needs to be said. Especially once they start reacting. In all situations try and have a friend ready to give you comfort that knows what's going on. You will need a friend to cry to/vent to/be excited with. And if you don't? You at least have 7 cups!
jb0440
August 2nd, 2015 10:00pm
Be honest. True loving parents will accept you regardless of what you tell them, they will just want you to be happy and support you regardless.
Anonymous
August 5th, 2015 3:47pm
If you're under eight teen and their family are homophobic, you could consider not telling them until they're eight teen so you're able to afford a house if your parents decide to kick you out. You should sit down with their parents, and inform them gently.
ExquisiteArdour
August 5th, 2015 3:51pm
You could start of by talking to the parent you are most comfortable with at first, the one you think will accept you instantly. Might feel a bit easier to not come out to both parents at once. "I like boys/girls" is short and would keep it simple. Remember that your parents love you, even though they might be shocked they still do.
Anonymous
August 5th, 2015 7:44pm
I would ask them to sit down with you and then you should start telling them about your feelings and as they are your parents they'll understand because you're their child,they love you!
FriendlyAdviser
August 6th, 2015 12:07pm
There is nothing wrong with being gay, it might come off as a surprise to your parents but they mean well, so do not be scared about it and tell your parents calmly and be understanding of their feelings, they always want the best for you and will understand.
shiningautumn
August 6th, 2015 6:12pm
You have to be sure what exactly you want to tell them. Ask them if you can talk to them. Stay calm and try to talk fluently. They will understand because its you and you cant just change yourself for someone.
hereforyoubae
August 6th, 2015 7:38pm
There is no single, sure-fire way of telling your parents that you are lesbian or gay. Just as no two families are exactly the same so the method, even the words, will vary from one family to the next. But many reactions are common to all families, and knowing this, it is often possible to work out the best method for your family. Very few parents imagine that their children could possibly be lesbian or gay. Even those who may have had suspicions still feel shocked, sad or angry when confronted with the fact. Try to understand this. You have had, perhaps, several years to gradually come to terms with the fact that you are lesbian or gay. Your parents, when you tell them will have had no time at all. Although teenagers sometimes find it difficult to accept that no one knows them as well as their parents there is no denying that they have watched you develop from birth to the present moment. So they will find it hard to accept that there is a side to you they never knew about.
RainbowChild
August 7th, 2015 6:34am
there is a song it's by ally hills it's the perfect song it will do all the talking for you i really hope that everything works out for you
bubblyMelon22
August 8th, 2015 12:36am
Only you know your parents well and you may have a picture in your head of how they might react, but it could be the total opposite life is full of surprises. Only you know what is best for you and whatever that is should be done. If your parents don't approve of you of course you'll be hurt, but they are certainly not worth your time because you are you and you deserve to be excepted so just come out with it show them you're proud!
Anonymous
August 8th, 2015 9:24am
In a happy convo, tell them that you are gay. They will understand it. Maybe not today or tomorrow, but in time.
Anonymous
August 8th, 2015 1:04pm
First important thing: be sure you're safe. If your parents are against it, I suggest you wait with coming out until you're older. As great as coming out is, you do need to consider that not all parents will be supportive. Safety first! If they're generally positive about homosexuality you could just tell them! Or maybe first tell the parent your closest too. If you have trouble telling them in person, you could always text it to them. (that's what I did)
Anonymous
August 8th, 2015 4:30pm
Tell them that you love them very kuch and it is important to you that you are open and honest with them and you vakue their support
Anonymous
August 8th, 2015 4:39pm
i would just go to my parents and tell them. they are my parents , they love me and they will accept me however i am..
oliviaisheretohelpyou
August 9th, 2015 6:11am
First by telling them how much you love them and how you are grateful for them always helping you through life. Tell them you have something important to talk to them about and just be honest. Honesty is policy.
Anonymous
August 9th, 2015 2:13pm
Sit down and talk to them face to face. or bring it up with them in general conversation. and then give them a bit of time to come to terms with it.
Anonymous
August 9th, 2015 6:53pm
You can ask your parents to if you could talk to them. Then present point straight on. You must be the person to feel comfortable about this. Nobody can make you do anything. If you not ready. Don't tell them. You should only tell when you are completely comfortable and sure.
5thousandmiles
August 9th, 2015 11:46pm
There's no easy way to 'come out' to your family. You can possibly find a way to lessen the shock if you have a general idea of their beliefs, but the best way in my opinion is to find a quiet time when you're together and to simply tell them.
eternalHero77
August 12th, 2015 4:09am
Be honest first of all. Recognize their views may be far different than yours. Be mindful of that. Don't dismiss but Acknowledge their views and show you understand their views while at the same time letting them know what you views are and where you stand in your sexuality.
Anonymous
August 12th, 2015 1:39pm
What are some of the concerns you might have when you decide to tell your parents that you are gay? How do you see the conversation going, and what would be the response and reaction you would expect from them?