When I came out I was at the doctor’s office. My mum wasn’t in the room but my doctor was, and she asked me about how school and life were going. Then she asked about dating, and when I said people had started dating, she asked whether I knew if I liked boys or girls. I hesitantly told her “girls, I think.” She didn’t even blink and simply accepted me. I’m writing this later in the day that it happened and it feels like a dream. I hope others are as acceptive. (F/14/Sapphic)
Story #2663
When I came out, it was the day after I turned 14. My sister (who is also lesbian) kind of guessed, so I never had to come out to her. But the day after my birthday, there was this girl from school I was on a walk with. She had come out as bi to me and her friends the week before. It was getting dark outside, so I told her, “Can I tell you a secret you can’t tell anybody else?” She pinkie promised she wouldn’t tell anyone, and then I told her, “I think… I think I’m gay.” Then I told her when I started to realise it and stuff. She was super accepting, and then she told me her coming out story. It was scary, because even though I knew she wouldn’t hate me, I had never said the words “I’m gay” out loud before. But I am so glad I did it. I feel so seen, and so understood. It feels so refreshing to not have to pretend to be straight! (F/14/Lesbian)
Story #2661
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)