Coming Out

“Coming out” is a term used to mean sharing your LGBTQ identity with another person. That person might be a family member, friend, or co-worker. Or it might be coming out to the entire world (thanks to social media)! Every person’s journey of self-disclosure is unique and no one should feel pressure to “out” themselves before they are ready. This page provides several resources for individuals and supportive allies to help with their process of sharing and receiving the news.

Healthline, a media company committed to providing clear, credible, evidence-based health and wellness information, provides a good general overview of considerations you should take before, during, and after a “coming out” conversation.

The University of Washington provides another good overview for younger adults, including the six stages of coming out.

More Resources

The Human Rights Campaign has thought about and provides resources for just about every “coming out” situation, whether you are from a particular racial/ethnic group or have a religious affiliation to gender identity and sexual identity distinctions.

The Trevor Project, which focuses on suicide prevention among young LGBTQ, has created a comprehensive handbook called, “Coming Out: A Handbook for LGBTQ Young People.”

PFLAG, a national group supporting parents and allies whose loved ones are LGBTQ, has created a list for parents of Quick Tips for Supporting Your LGBTQ Kids–and YOURSELF–During the Coming-Out Process.