While the term “coming out” is often generically applied to many everyday life situations in which a person has kept secret a behavior or circumstance, the term in this context refers to sexuality and gender identification.
The decision to voluntarily share this very personal information with others often presents special challenges. Whom to tell? How will they react? Will I be shunned? Will my family still love and accept me?
Coming Out is hopefully a voluntary process.
Often these questions, and others, create an internal process of conflict. Perhaps there are family beliefs or faith-based beliefs that are in direct conflict with the growing awareness and desire to live an openly authentic life.
It should be noted that there may be risks of physical assaults, loss of employment and/or other forms of harassment and intimidation associated with coming out. The rate of depression and anxiety has been noted to be very high with people, especially teens, who are struggling with self-acceptance and being gay or lesbian.
Relief and acceptance is available. Hope is here!