When I came out, I only came out to one friend, my best friend, because I don’t think my parents will accept me. I hope one day I can tell them, but for now I am scared and don’t feel safe. After telling my friend I felt so free. Before I even came out to myself I thought I was evil, that I was disgusting. I struggled with depression, an eating disorder and suicidal thoughts; I still do but it is better. Some days are hard but it’s better; I have my ups and downs but I now there is at least one person who accepts me for who I truly am and who will always be there for me. I know I’m not completely out but to someone who is still closeted, telling at least one person helps so much. Knowing you aren’t alone and someone cares is so amazing and just know if you are struggling with internal thoughts it gets better, it really does. (F/16/Bi)
Story #2658
When I came out, it started slowly. I told my wife first, then my sister-in-law who lives with us, then my kids. When I was in the process of changing everything legally, the government sent a card, I think it was about voter registration, to my former address, where my parents still lived. The card was addressed to my new name. Immediately, they began attempting to convince me to come over so they could correct me (my sperm donor is a pastor of a very conservative church), essentially offering me conversion therapy. At this point, I just made my identity completely public, resulting in a few supportive members of my extended family, but also several cut ties. (MtF/33/Lesbian/poly)
Story #2657
When I came out I was outed at school. I was very feminine even though I was assigned male at birth, so a couple of bullies searched my backpack when I was in the bathroom and found my ‘female stash’, which was full of makeup and perfume and other womanly things. Those bullies took a picture and posted it all over their stories and everyone started calling me trans, and where I’m from, when the principal hears about a closeted child, it is mandatory for them to inform parents. My parents were angry and scolded me, saying I was confused and that gender dysphoria is fake and transgenderness is a sin and stuff like that. Now, I feel uncomfortable and insecure in my family and at school. (Trans [MtF]/14)
Story #2652
When I came out, I only told friends I could trust. When I first told my parents I was questioning my sexuality, they were supportive, but said that I was “too young to know for sure” and that it was probably “just a phase.” Over the years, I realized that I liked both boys and girls, so I’ve since accepted my bisexual identity. I’ve told friends who I can trust, and they have all been really supportive. Now, I’m proud of who I am, and don’t feel the need to hide anymore. (F/13/Bisexual)
Story #2650
When I came out to my parents as pansexual I was 9, and my parents were very supportive, even if they did act like it was a phase. When I was 11 I came out as a lesbian, because I had never really had crushes on men, I just saw them as friends. My friends were all very supportive and I couldn’t be more lucky with the way that things turned out. I am coming out to my mom’s side of the family this weekend, and I hope it goes well. Good luck to anyone who is/is thinking about coming out. (F/12/Lesbian)
Story #2648
When I came out, my parents weren’t sure if it was a joke. In eighth grade, my friends and I made a pact to all come out with the classic “I’m straight, April fools!” to parents, and I sent the text right before two long hours of swim practice. My dad was silent the car ride home, until he asked if I was serious about my text. He said, “So, are you gay?” and I said “Kinda?” and after clarifying to my mom she said, “Okay” and that was that — I guess that was all I could ask for. The subject will never not be awkward; they will never not make subtly homophobic comments; it will take a lot for me to feel comfortable in my sexuality around my family. Still, I can be grateful. (F/16)
Story #2645
When I came out to my mom I was 16 and she said, “I know.” Honestly I felt relieved that she didn’t say anything negative. Which was better than her bf reaction who told me if I don’t change I am going to hell. My mom accepts me and supports me even if she does say unflavory words about other people in the community that I always correct her on. (F/19)
Story #2639
When I came out, I told my friend in a text message ‘I am queer 🏳️🌈’. I knew she was an ally, but it was still terrifying and she was one of the first people I had told. She was so supportive, and now I feel that our friendship has become even stronger and better. I still haven’t told my parents as I think they would just say that I am confused, but to know I have a supportive friend makes life so much easier. ❤️❤️❤️ (F/13/Queer)
Story #2632
When I came out to myself in September 2022 I thought I was Bi and then later I went to thinking I was Gay then Poly then I started to realize I wasn’t Male and identified as NB for some time then I found that I was Very Feminine so I went to thinking I was a Demi-girl then to knowing I am a Trans Female and Pansexual. And I made this because I wanted to share part of the process of Discovery that comes with being LGBTQ+ (Trans MtF/11/Pansexual)
Story #2630
When I came out, I was in 6th grade and at the time thought I was aroace. My friends were playing a game of “Skeleton in Your Closet” (which is where everyone says a deep secret) and I randomly decided, on a whim, to come out to them. But just as I went to whisper “I’m aroace”, something inside me made me say “I’m a lesbian” instead. Well, a year later, it turns out that I actually am a lesbian after all! My friends were so accepting and it turned out most of them are queer as well. I’m holding off on coming out to my family because they say they are accepting but I don’t feel ready. Sending good wishes to all the queer people who are about to come out!!! (F/13/Lesbian)