Stories from the Helpline: National Coming Out Week
Filed by: Guest Blogger
October 12, 2008 3:00 PM
http://www.bilerico.com/2008/10/stories_from_the_helpline_national_comin.phpEditor's Note: Charles Robbins is the executive director and CEO of The Trevor Project. The Trevor Project operates the only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth.
"How do I know if I'm gay?" "Should I tell my family?" "What if my friends won't hang out with me once they find out?"
Each day on The Trevor Helpline, our dedicated volunteer counselors listen and respond to questions like these from young people who just aren't sure whether or not it's the right time for them to come out. As many of us know, coming out- whether it's for the very first time or not- can be a difficult and challenging process. Our young callers have reported feeling scared, alone, angry, sad, confused, and a wide range of other emotions as they consider whether or not to come out. Yet, many callers also report feeling relieved, supported, encouraged, or happy after they do make the decision to come out. It all depends on the individual, their support system, and what kind of environment they live in.
