Supporting your teen's coming-out
Adolescence is a journey of self-discovery, and for some, this means exploring their sexual orientation and gender identity. If your child has come out of the closet, this is an important and emotional time for both of you. Your unconditional love and support are essential to help him/her through this stage with confidence. Here are a few tips to help your teenager through this crucial time in his or her life.
To remember
👉 Your teen's coming out may generate a lot of emotions for you: that's normal!
👉 Coming out is a time of great vulnerability for your loved one: listen carefully and believe what he or she tells you.
👉 Continue to show your love despite any concerns you may have.
Listening: a sign of unconditional love
Let your child express him/herself freely and at his/her own pace, without interrupting or judging. Listen carefully to their words to understand their feelings, fears and hopes. Acknowledge their courage in confiding in you, and thank them for their trust. Don't hesitate to express your pride, and remind him/her of your unconditional love.
💡Read our article: My teen is coming out: helpful attitudes
Respect their rhythm, their choices, their identity
Coming-out is a personal process that takes time and reflection. Each person has his or her own rhythm, and it's important to respect your teenager's. Don't force him or her to talk about it to other people (family members, for example). Don't force them to tell other people (family members, for example) if they don't feel ready, and don't divulge this information on their behalf. His or her identity is his or her own, and it's up to your teen to decide how and when to share it.
Be open-minded and accepting
Show your young person that you love and accept them as they are, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Your support is his best asset in getting through this period. If you feel the need to learn more about these subjects, don't hesitate to ask associations, specialized websites (Interligne, Conseil Québécois LGBT or La Coalition des familles LGBT, for example) or our teams. Understanding our customers' experience means we can support them with greater accuracy and sensitivity.
