For parents of LGBTQ youth

LGBTQ youth who reported higher levels of family rejection are 8.4x more likely to attempt suicide than those who experienced little or no family rejection.

Responding to your child coming out to you

  • Remind them that you love them unconditionally

  • Listen and ask open-ended questions (including what their preferred pronouns are for their identity)

  • Take them seriously; don’t call it a “phase” or something they will outgrow

  • Try not to focus on the “why” or possible causes; research continues to show that LGBTQ individuals are born with these identifications, just as heterosexual and cisgender people are

  • Don’t shy away from asking about their safety; ask the important questions about suicidal thoughts or feelings

  • Remind them that they are not alone

  • Commit to finding resources and learning together, as a family