I always suspected that I was gay since the age of 10. Now I am 16 and in a relationship. My parents just think we are very good friends. I want to come out to them, but I just don't know how. If you have any suggestions, could you please tell me, and do you know of any organizations for gay teens in Mississippi? Thanks for your time.
Signed,
Crystal, 18, Carriere MS
Dear Crystal,

Probably the best resource for dealing with parents as an LGBT person is Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (www.pflag.org), a national organization that we refer to all the time. It is a group made up primarily of parents and family members, who work to provide support and education for other family members and friends of gay people.

Believe it or not, there are several PFLAG chapters in Mississippi :), which you can access by going to the PFLAG website. Among other things, they publish a guide to help people in coming out to their parents.

Of course, you can also give our helpline a call to talk over your concerns and explore possible approaches to your parents with one of our listeners. S/he may also be able to help you locate other resources in your area for gay teens.

Trevor