I feel so alone. A couple of people applied for a GSA at our school a couple months ago but it was refused because the Christian Youth Club wouldn’t allow it. I don’t know who applied, but I wish I did so that I can interact with others like me. Are there any programs for LBGT youth in or near Monterey Park?
Signed,
Kyle, 17, MPK CA
The first thing to say in response to your letter is that although you feel alone, you are not alone! There are many, many gay teens waiting for an opportunity to meet and get to know their peers. It’s crummy and hard to be an isolated gay teen, but that doesn’t mean you will be alone for long, or even that being alone will always mean feeling lonely. Someone in your school wanted to start a GSA, which tells me that others are probably in a situation similar to yours! Is there a way that you can find out who it was that applied for the club? They might be some interesting, motivated, supportive friends to have.

In Los Angeles County, a good resource to check out is Project10 (www.project10.org), an organization dedicated to helping LGBT teens organize and find safe spaces in their schools. You might also want to check out GSA Network (www.GSANetwork.org) or the Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network/GLSEN (www.GLSEN.org). Both organizations are also dedicated to creating safe and inclusive schools for queer youth and their allies.

If you’re feeling depressed, don’t hesitate to let a school counselor, trusted teacher and/or your parents know about it. If they don’t know you’re gay, and you feel uncomfortable coming out, just ask for their help with the loneliness part of your dilemma and explore finding other gay youth on your own. Of course, you can always call The Trevor Helpline at 866.4.U.TREVOR (866.488.7386), to speak with a caring counselor who might be able to give you other ways to connect with gay youth in your area.

The most important things to do about feeling lonely is to reach out to people whose job it is to help you navigate this difficult period safely, and to trust in your own ability to love and take care of yourself during this time.