More on After Coming Out

Dealing With Family Rejection

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Q:
What if my parents kick me out of the house?

A:
There are thousands of gay teens living on the streets. Some ran away and others were forced to leave. If you find yourself homeless with no where to go, seek help immediately. Keep a gay community center help line number with you at all times. Explain your situation and wait for a referral. Not all places have resources for gay homeless youth, but there are organizations like the Ruth Ellis Center that can help. Choose an option that is safer than the streets.

Q:
Now that I'm out, what do I do next?

A:
A painful coming out experience may seem like a regrettable move at first; but, if dealt with correctly, the emotional roller coaster eventually becomes a cleansing process. Steer clear of substances, such as drugs or alcohol. They only numb the pain temporarily- leaving you with the same pain, perhaps a worse situation and a bad habit (learn how to recognize an alcohol or drug addiction).

There is a healthy and fulfilling future waiting for you. Once you find a safe environment and positive support system, start to develop your new life goals. You have a choice in what kind of person you want to be and who you want to become. Many gay men go on to have families, including stable relationships and children. Being gay or bisexual does not define who you are, it is merely a part of you. Others may see this as a deficiency on your part, but again, that's their issue. Your sexual and emotional feelings are normal and you are not alone. Now create a new life, defined by you!