When I came out I was 11. I told the whole family at once and most of them didn’t accept me. My dad acted aggressive for a few days before assuming it’s just a phase and I’ll get over it someday. I also told most of my friends, and they all accepted me. (M/16/Gay)
Story #1805
When I came out to one of my friends, he came out to me. It was a huge relief to have someone to talk to openly. The night I came out to him I could not stop shaking and thinking about coming out to my parents. I drafted an email, which I sent the next morning while I was out of the house. They were really accepting in front of me, though my dad privately sought therapy to process the new information. (F/Gay)
Story #1798
When I came out, to my friends at least, I was welcomed with nothing but love and support. Though I maintain a heterosexual relationship and claim bisexuality, I realize I cannot force myself to do this forever. Someday soon, I will HAVE to be completely transparent with boyfriend, my mother, and most importantly, myself. This will change my entire life, and that terrifies me. All I have to say is “I’m gay,” but just the thought of accomplishing that makes me want to hide. (F/23/Gay)
Story #1797
When I came out, I was 13 and I decided to bake cupcakes just to write “I’m Gay” on one of them in frosting and to give it to my parents. They were confused as to why it was written there, then asked me the question, “Are you gay?” I then said, “Yes” and they were supportive of it. Probably one of the proudest moments of my life. (M/15/Gay)
Story #1796
When I came out, it was a few days ago. My parents are now forcing me to renounce what I said and force me further into the closet. I thought that coming out would lift a weight off my shoulders but it just got worse. (M/Gay)
Story #1795
When I came out… I was super scared of how my parents would react. At first they reassured me that I was still their son and they loved me no matter what. Thing is, my family is religious, so once they actually realized I was serious… that’s when the negative speech started. I was disowned, kicked out at age 18, and I am now just trying to reconnect with my family. I hope no one else has to live through something like I did. (M/20/Gay)
Story #1792
When I came out to my girlfriend, she was completely understanding and knew that this was for me and all she had was love in her heart for me. I’m planning on going home tonight to see my mom so I can tell her. I’m scared but knowing that she’s my best friend, I think she’s going to support me and love me even more for not lying about who I am anymore. (M/20/Gay)
Story #1790
When I came out I told my best friend. He acted like nothing happened for a while until it came up again and I realised he acted like nothing happened because he didn’t care that I was gay, at all. Other friends and most of family were accepting also. (M/20/Gay)
Story #1784
When I came out, I was in tears with my best friend and admitted I was gay after trying to date a girl for 8 years. She accepted me and helped me to come out to my family. My mum always jokes with me. But my dad recently told me that he didn’t like to have a gay in the family and won’t leave me alone. (M/20/Gay)
Story #1782
When I came out, I first told my sister, brother, and a few friends that I was gay, and even though it was very obvious they would be accepting, coming out to my parents was the hardest part. It was 11 o’clock at night and I had a track meet the next day, but I was watching my dad working and knew that I should tell him then, no matter how long the conversation would be. When I walked over and told him, he looked very surprised for a few seconds and then he immediately got up and hugged me, telling me he loved me while I was crying from how relieved I was. Then he woke up my mom and all three of us were in my room talking about how I could be anything I wanted to be in life and that sexuality is an important, but small part of you, that does not define what kind of person you are. Ever since that night, three days ago, I have been way happier about myself, even if I haven’t completely come out yet, but I plan to soon! (F/16/Gay)