Hello, everyone

[batwings]

Hi, I'm Stephen. 26, California. Right now I'm only out to a couple of very close friends - I haven't even told my partner. The pressure to live as my truest self has been getting almost unbearable lately, and I'm hoping that finding a community of people who know what I'm going through will help me survive the days until I can finally come out publicly and start my transition.

It's terrifying to finally be honest about something I've kept secret for so long, but I'm looking forward to starting this journey. 

[Mariah]

Hi Stephen, welcome to Susan's. I know it can be terrifying and daunting when we first start out. Many things will get easier as you move forward where as somethings don't always. Telling an SO is a difficult task. I met my SO after transitioning, but telling him wasn't the easiest thing for me to do because your so concerned that they won't except you for you are with that knowledge in hand. We are hear to help. I would recommend a therapist because they will also be able to help and give you tools to be able to come out to your SO as well. It takes a lot of courage to that as it does to post on here for the first time. I look forward to seeing you around the forums. Good luck and Hugs
Mariah

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[batwings]

Thanks Mariah! I started seeing a therapist a few months ago (anxiety and depression) but never got up the courage to tell her about my gender issues... then unfortunately I lost my health insurance and couldn't continue with therapy.  Hopefully that will change soon and I'll be able to take that step.

[Mariah]

I hope things change for you soon. You might look around your area you might find free or therapists that will work with in regards to the amount you pay. Hugs
Mariah

[katrinaw]

Big warm welcome to Susan's Stephen

hugs... I know exactly where you are at, I have kept secrets for way to many years... and you, internally, can't hide from it, you can create a charade for the external, but its eats you up inside until you just want to burst out. The more folks you come out to the easier it becomes.

Hope you can find a therapist that can help you, best wishes for your journey and finally talking with your partner, whenever that time is xxxx

Look forward to seeing you about the forum's.

L Katy 

[V M]

Hi Stephen 

Welcome to Susan's    Glad to have you here, join on in the fun

Hugs

V M

[gennee]

Hi Stephen and welcome to Susan's.