Wanting to come out, but scared

[Holly-chan]

As I've mentioned in my intro, I've already come out to my girlfriend and she's perfectly OK with it, even if I decide to transition completely, but not knowing what that means for me or when or anything really, we're still figuring everything out.

But the problem is, I can't feel like myself during the day because I live with my girlfriend, children, my brothers (2), my mom, her boyfriend, and my brother's roomate. I can't dress during the day, do makeup, or anything really because I haven't told anyone yet.  I'm not sure how to go about it, even though I know my mother will be OK with it, I don't know how my brothers will take it.

I guess what I'm after is any suggestions you guys may have. I know in the end it'll be my decision when it comes to the how and when and all that, but I'm just so damned scared that everyone will flip out and dump me or something. I would hate that.

That and I'm not sure what to tell my children who are 4 and 2 years old. I don't know if my coming out will effect them adversely or anything like that.

I suppose I'm just looking to see if anyone else has been in a similar situation and if they would be ok with sharing that with me so I can have a better idea on how and when to tell my mother.

Also, I live in the US and cannot see a therapist for these problems until I get my health insurance back, so telling her is kind of crucial to this whole process I think...

[katherine]

Hi Holly,
There is a resources link at the top of the page that will provide information regarding coming out to family.  I came out to my mother, who in turn told my sisters. All supportive.  My wife, not at all supportive.  Your situation is different from my own regarding your living conditions.  There are others here who are better able to respond to this, who likely had to deal with the issue of children.  Also, there is a significant others forum that you might find helpful.  Good luck sweetheart and take care.

[Holly-chan]

Thank you so much for the words of advice!
I have been reading up on some of the resources on the main pages and they have been helpful!
I guess I just wanted to tell Somebody, you know? I hate keeping things to myself in normal situations, so it's really hard not to tell her when I see her 24/7~

[katherine]

Hi Holly,

I understand.  At some point we should come out to family and look for their support.  I hope you will find your family to be very supportive.  I wish you luck on your journey.  Take care.