should i tell the boys at my group home how they are making me feel but that means coming out to them what should i do
Signed,
tim, 17, knoxville TN

 Hi Tim,

 

Thanks for your question! It is so awesome that you are considering coming out! It is such a complex decision to make, and congratulations for even contemplating it!

Coming out is a huge deal, and one that you should undertake when you are ready and when it is safe to do so. Once you come out the need to hide aspects of your personality and very significant pieces of who are, simply melt away; you can finally be who you are. 

Sadly, though some people do not react well. If you are living with other boys your age, you need to consider what the reactions of the boys you are considering telling, as well as other folks who may find out in the group home. If you believe that you could be in physical danger, or if your living situation may become intolerable if you come out, DONT! Wait a little while longer and come out when you are in a different living situation. Once it is safe, and you feel ready, your coming out will be such a great experiance!

 

Also, if there is a counsler or an adult that you feel safe talking to, talk to them, they may be able to help you with the specifics (i.e., if they know the boys you are considering telling, they have an idea of how they will react). Also, feel free to call the Trevor hotline (1-866-488-7386).

 

Here is a great guide from the Human Rights Campaign for coming out: (http://www.hrc.org/documents/resourceguide_co.pdf).

 

Good luck Tim!

If you have any more questions, please write back! We are here for you!

 

Always,

Trevor