How to Tell Your Family That You Are Gay

Coming out can be exciting and liberating. You’re able to be more open, honest, and comfortable with who you are, and you can surround yourself with people who fully accept you. But telling your family that you’re gay can be nerve wracking too, especially if you’re not sure how they will react. We’ve put together some tips to help you figure out the best time and way to tell your family and take care of yourself in the process.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Deciding Who to Tell and How to Tell Them

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    Make sure you are ready to discuss your sexual orientation. It can feel liberating to speak your truth to others. If you’re ready to live fully as yourself, you are ready to come out. If you’re not confident in how you identify, you might want to wait to tell your family members. Make sure that you can comfortably say to yourself, “I am gay and proud of who I am” before you tell your family.[1]
    • If you are having trouble figuring out how you identify, that’s okay. Try going to a helpful website like the one for PFLAG. That organization has great resources for members of the LGBT community and their friends and family members.[2]
    • Consider taking a research-backed quiz, like this one, to help you determine if identifying as gay feels right to you.
    • You could also talk to a gay person that you know and ask if they could share their coming out experience with you.
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    Write down what you want to say. It’s understandable that you might be nervous before you come out. That’s okay! Take some time to plan out what you want to say. This will help your comfort level. Jot down what you want to say word for word or just jot down some main points.[3]
    • You could write down an opening statement like, “Mom, I have something important to tell you. I’m gay, and I’m very happy that I can be open and honest with you.”
    • You can also list some keywords to include, like proud, excited, or nervous.
    • Try writing down how you might respond if the person says something negative. You could try, "I was really hoping for your support. If you're not able to offer that right now, maybe we could talk again in a few days."
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    Choose one person to tell first. You don’t have to tell multiple people at once unless you want to. Think about the people in your family and consider who is supportive and understanding.[4] You might want to tell them first. They can serve as your support system when you are ready to tell more people. [5]
    • Of course, it’s fine if you want to tell both parents at once. But if you feel more comfortable with one of them, you can talk to them separately.
    • You could choose to tell a sibling or a kind aunt or uncle first. It’s completely up to you and who you feel most comfortable with.
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    Write a letter if you’re not comfortable speaking face to face. If you’re feeling pretty uncertain, consider writing a letter. A personal note for a family member allows you to express yourself without dealing with the anxiety of a face to face conversation. It will also give them time to process your news privately. [6]
    • Another benefit of letters is that you have time to edit and make sure that you’ve said exactly what you want to say.
    • Another option is to talk over the phone if you don’t want to speak in person.
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    Consider waiting to come out if you don't think you'll be supported. It's great that you want to be open and honest with your family members. However, hold off on telling someone if they've given you signals that they are not accepting. While it's great to want to live your truth, it's also important that you prioritize your feelings.[7] Coming out to someone who may make you feel bad might not be worth it. Avoid telling someone if:[8]
    • They frequently make homophobic remarks
    • They have openly said hurtful things about gay people
    • They have threatened to not support you if you come out as gay
  6. Image titled Tell Your Family That You Are Gay Step 6
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    Make sure you have options if you need to change your living situation. If you think that your family member might react negatively, make sure to plan for how that might impact you. If you live with your parents, make sure that you have an alternate living plan lined up in case your parents kick you out. Hopefully, that won’t happen, but it’s best to be prepared. Ask a friend or other family member if you can stay with them if the conversation doesn’t go well.[9]
    • If your parents support you financially, consider waiting to tell them until you can support yourself.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Talking Face to Face

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    Choose a time and place where you will all feel comfortable. This is an important conversation and it deserves time and respect. Pick a time when you and your family member won’t have to rush off to do something else. You should also pick a location where you feel comfortable and confident.[10]
    • For example, don’t try to talk to your dad while he’s busy cooking dinner. Instead say, “Dad, I have something I want to talk about. Do you have time to sit down with me after dinner?”
    • Your living room or a cozy, quiet coffee shop might be good places to have this talk.
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    Deliver your message and focus on the positives. This isn’t the time to beat around the bush. You don’t want the other person to get confused or impatient. State what you want to say and do it confidently. Including a positive statement will help you feel good about what you’re saying and it will let the other person know that this is good news.[11]
    • Try saying, “I want you to know that I’m gay. I’m letting you know because I’m ready to explore dating, and I’m really excited about that.”
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    3
    Be clear about who they can tell. While you might be really excited to share this with your family, it’s fine to not want the whole world to know. Tell your family members who they may or may not tell. Remember, it is completely up to you. Your comfort is the top priority.[12]
    • You can say, “I’d really appreciate it if you keep this to yourself. I’ll let you know if and when it’s okay to talk to someone else.”
    • Another option is, “It’s okay to tell Aunt Melissa, but please keep this between the two of you for now.”
  4. Image titled Tell Your Family That You Are Gay Step 10
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    Allow them to ask questions. You’ve probably had some time to figure out what your sexual identity means, but your family member might be taken aback. It’s okay for them to ask questions. Try to calmly answer them if you feel comfortable doing so. They’re probably genuinely curious, not trying to be rude.[13]
    • If your brother asks you if you’re sure you’re gay, you can say something like, “Yes. I’m very comfortable identifying as gay. Do you have questions about exactly what that means?”
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    Provide them with resources. Your family members might not know how to support you. They might also be confused about how this could impact you and your family. Let them know that it’s okay to need some help understanding everything. Direct them towards helpful resources, like the PFLAG website.[14]
    • You can also print out resources that you’ve found online so that you can give them to them. If there’s an LGBT support center in your town, stop by and pick up some brochures that can be helpful to your family members.
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    Tell your parents what you need if they react negatively. If your family member doesn't offer you support, you'll understandably feel bad. If they say something negative or hurtful, remind yourself that you are important and that you are good enough just the way you are. Then, tell your parents what you need in the moment. You can try saying:[15]
    • "I really need to know that you love and support me."
    • This is making me upset. I'm going to take a walk, so please respect my need for space."
    • "I know you're upset, but I still love you."
  7. Image titled Tell Your Family That You Are Gay Step 13
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    Walk away if the situation becomes unsafe. Hopefully, your family is supportive and understanding. If they react negatively, however, you might need to remove yourself from the situation. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it's totally fine to take a break. A situation doesn't have to be dangerous for you to walk away. Go somewhere else if your family member is:[16]
    • Threatening to physically harm you
    • Using abusive or hateful language
    • Screaming at you or making you feel unsafe
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Processing the Reactions and Finding Support

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    Give the other person time to react. If you don't receive immediate support, it's normal to be upset. That's okay! You didn't do anything wrong, after all. But try to be empathetic to the other person. They might be confused, upset, or startled. Allow them time to process their feelings. Try not to take it personally if they say that they need some space, even though you're hurt.[17]
    • It’s normal for people to want to take a few days or weeks to work out their feelings. While it might seem hard, give them the space to do so.
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    Keep the dialogue open for the future. This doesn’t need to be the end of the conversation, unless you want it to be. Remember, this process is about you and what makes you feel good. After your initial conversation, reach out and let them know that you’d like to keep communicating. You can say that you’re happy to answer more questions later or that you could use their support as you continue the process of telling people.[18]
    • Don’t feel the need to do this if your family member was not kind to you. It’s okay to do what’s best for you, even if that means not talking to the person for a while.
  3. Image titled Tell Your Family That You Are Gay Step 16
    3
    Reach out to local groups for support. Coming out is a really emotional process. Even if your conversation goes well, you might still need some additional support. Look online to see if there are LGBT support groups in your area.[19] If there isn’t a group nearby, search online to find an online community.[20]
  4. Image titled Tell Your Family That You Are Gay Step 17
    4
    Lean on supportive friends and family.[21] Let them know that you need some extra kindness during this time. If you have already come out to them, you can say, "I told my sister I'm gay and it didn't go well. Do you have time to talk it out with me?"[22]
    • You can get support from others even if they don't know that you're gay. Just say, "I'm going through some tough stuff. Will you take a walk with me to help me relax?"
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    5
    Practice self-care by being kind to yourself. Coming out can cause you to feel like you're on a rollercoaster of emotions. It's normal to feel that way! Focus on being kind to yourself while you're on this journey.[23] Remind yourself every day that you are proud of who you are and that you are a valuable person. You can also take care of yourself by:[24]
    • Spending time with supportive people
    • Playing with a pet
    • Reading a good book
    • Spending time in nature
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Expert Q&A

  • Question
    How can I come out to my friend without freaking them out?
    Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC
    Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC
    LGBTQ+ Counselor
    Deb Schneider is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Oakland, CA, and a Program Manager for the Weiland Health Initiative at Stanford University. With over 15 years of experience, she specializes in creating safe spaces, respectful of marginalized identities, at the high school and college levels. Deb holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Women's Studies from Clark University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) with Health Concentration from the University of California, Berkeley School of Social Welfare.
    Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC
    Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC
    LGBTQ+ Counselor
    Expert Answer
    If they're actually a good and supportive friend, then you shouldn't worry a whole lot about this. A true friend won't be "freaked out," even if they're straight. They may have questions, and that's okay, but I wouldn't assume they mean anything negative by it.
  • Question
    What if I don't want to come out yet?
    Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC
    Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC
    LGBTQ+ Counselor
    Deb Schneider is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Oakland, CA, and a Program Manager for the Weiland Health Initiative at Stanford University. With over 15 years of experience, she specializes in creating safe spaces, respectful of marginalized identities, at the high school and college levels. Deb holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Women's Studies from Clark University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) with Health Concentration from the University of California, Berkeley School of Social Welfare.
    Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC
    Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC
    LGBTQ+ Counselor
    Expert Answer
    Then don't come out! You don't have to do anything that you aren't comfortable with, and there's no reason to rush this. You should do this entirely on your own terms.
  • Question
    I am 11 years old and 99% sure I am bisexual. However, I am afraid about coming out because it might be too early. Should I wait until I am at least 13?
    ParadiseLost
    ParadiseLost
    Community Answer
    There's no right or wrong age to come out. You can come out anytime to anyone when you feel comfortable enough doing so. Remember also that you don't have to come out if you just don't feel like it, and it is entirely okay to keep some things just to yourself. You can also just state that you feel like you are bisexual - you don't need to explain yourself any further. Don't be afraid to come out just because there might be a small chance you'll feel differently later on. It's entirely okay! Feelings can fluctuate, so for now, just enjoy being a proud bisexual!
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Warnings

  • If you are worried that the conversation might go badly, consider waiting to come out. Your physical safety is your top priority.
    ⧼thumbs_response⧽


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References

  1. ↑ https://www.pflagatl.org/how-to-come-out-to-family-and-friends/
  2. ↑ https://pflag.org/why-pflag
  3. ↑ https://www.pflagatl.org/how-to-come-out-to-family-and-friends/
  4. ↑ Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC. Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Expert Interview. 2 April 2021.
  5. ↑ https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/advice-hub/how-to-tell-your-parents-sexuality
  6. ↑ https://www.pflagatl.org/how-to-come-out-to-family-and-friends/
  7. ↑ Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC. Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Expert Interview. 2 April 2021.
  8. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/gay-and-lesbian-well-being/201103/should-you-come-out-your-parents
  9. ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/how-to-come-out-to-parents-tips
  1. ↑ https://www.ditchthelabel.org/coming-out-to-your-parents/
  2. ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/how-to-come-out-to-parents-tips
  3. ↑ https://www.ditchthelabel.org/coming-out-to-your-parents/
  4. ↑ https://www.ditchthelabel.org/coming-out-to-your-parents/
  5. ↑ https://www.ditchthelabel.org/coming-out-to-your-parents/
  6. ↑ https://www.strongfamilyalliance.org/how-to-come-out-to-parents/
  7. ↑ https://www.pflagatl.org/how-to-come-out-to-family-and-friends/
  8. ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/how-to-come-out-to-parents-tips
  9. ↑ https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/advice-hub/how-to-tell-your-parents-sexuality
  10. ↑ Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC. Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Expert Interview. 2 April 2021.
  11. ↑ https://www.pflagatl.org/how-to-come-out-to-family-and-friends/
  12. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/gay-and-lesbian-well-being/201103/should-you-come-out-your-parents
  13. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/gay-and-lesbian-well-being/201103/should-you-come-out-your-parents
  14. ↑ Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC. Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Expert Interview. 2 April 2021.
  15. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/gay-and-lesbian-well-being/201103/should-you-come-out-your-parents

About This Article

Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC
Co-authored by:
Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC
LGBTQ+ Counselor
This article was co-authored by Deb Schneider, LCSW, PPSC. Deb Schneider is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Oakland, CA, and a Program Manager for the Weiland Health Initiative at Stanford University. With over 15 years of experience, she specializes in creating safe spaces, respectful of marginalized identities, at the high school and college levels. Deb holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Women's Studies from Clark University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) with Health Concentration from the University of California, Berkeley School of Social Welfare. This article has been viewed 308,145 times.
11 votes - 73%
Co-authors: 85
Updated: March 18, 2022
Views: 308,145
Categories: Coming Out as LGBT
Article SummaryX

Telling your family that you’re gay can be exciting but also stressful, so take some time to think about how you want to tell them. Think about who in your family will be the most supportive and understanding and consider telling them first. If talking face to face is too nerve-wracking, write a letter or call them on the phone. If you don’t think your family will be supportive, you may want to wait to tell them until you feel like you have a solid support system of friends. You may also want to arrange another place to stay for a while in case things don't go well. When you’re ready to talk to your family, focus on the positives to help you feel good about what you’re telling them. For example, you might say something like “I want you to know that I’m gay. I’m letting you know because I’m ready to explore dating, and I’m really excited about that.” To learn how to give your family resources on how to support you, keep reading!

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