Coming out to your teen
Announcing your homosexuality to your teenage child can be a source of apprehension. How do you tell them? How will they react? Here are a few tips to help you tackle this important subject with serenity.
To remember
👉 Choose the right time, use simple language, and be prepared to answer your teen's questions honestly.
👉 Give them time to process the information and remind them of your unconditional love.
👉Encourage open and honest communication.
You're the parent of a teenager and you've decided to tell him or her about your sexual orientation. You may have questions, or even fears, about your teen's reaction. But you're not alone, and it's possible to deal with this important moment in a positive and constructive way.
Coming out can also be about your gender identity.
Preparing for the discussion
There's no magic formula for announcing your homosexuality to your teenager. The important thing is to create a climate of trust and openness.
Choose the right time and place. Choose a quiet moment when you feel at ease, when you're available to answer your teen's questions and when your teen is also available.
Use simple, sincere words. Explain your situation authentically, without going into details that might make them feel uncomfortable. Remember that you are entitled to your privacy, and that you don't have to share everything.
Be ready to answer even the most difficult questions. If you don't have all the answers, don't hesitate to tell her that you'll be looking for the information. We can help you with that.
Be authentic - not only in who you are, but also in how you tell them. Build on the relationship you have with your teenager: how would you talk to her about another subject, for example? Our advice should, of course, make sense to you and be relevant to you and your habits.
Approach the subject with kindness
The news that you're gay may elicit a variety of reactions from your child. It's important to accept them with empathy and understanding.
Give your child time to digest the information. Don't expect an immediate and/or positive reaction.
Remind him that you love him unconditionally, that his well-being and your relationship are paramount.
Don't hesitate to ask for help from professionals: psychologists, sexologists, counsellors: you and your teenager can receive support after the announcement.
Building a new family dynamic
Coming out can be an opportunity to strengthen family ties.
Encourage dialogue and mutual listening. Communication is essential to building a healthy and fulfilling relationship, even after coming out.
Be patient and kind to yourself. The journey may be long, but it's worth it.
Don't forget that you are a role model for your teenager. By living your life freely and authentically, you're teaching them tolerance and self-acceptance.
Announcing your homosexuality to your teenager is an important step. By approaching the subject with honesty, respect and love, and by setting limits, you pave the way for a stronger, more sincere relationship.
