Who first?

It’s very hard to predict how people are going to react when you come out to them. Parents are often the biggest challenge so it may be a good idea to tell a friend who you trust firstly, If your parents don’t accept you straight away you can gain support from your friend. If you just want to tell your friend for now that’s fine, but be sure to let them know that you don’t want this information to be shared with anyone else until you are ready.

On this website you will find listings of helplines and other support. It may be a good idea to come out to a worker at one of these first, just so you can get used to talking about your sexuality and the issues involved. The workers will be a friendly ear and will be able to offer you support and experience.

If you come out to your parents and they don’t accept it, then there are several groups around the country run by parents of lesbians and gay men that offer support and information on coming to terms with their child’s sexuality. You can find there addresses by clicking here.