For others, this may be a moment filled with fear.
The Future Is Fluid
First things first, lets break down what LGBTQIA+ stands for.
The plus encompasses other identities not explicitly included in the acronym.
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Nothing is more radical than a young person embracing their identity in a world embroiled in anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation.
The Risks of Authenticity
Living authentically comes with risk for our kids.
If you are a young person in crisis, you’re able to contactThe Trevor Projectat1-866-488-7386for support.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
A lot of times, kids are so worried about expressing who they are, Davis stated.
Beyond mental health issues is the reality of parental rejection and societal shunning.
These pain points can have very real repercussions.
A 2020 study found that 17% of folks who identify assexual minoritieshave experiencedhomelessnessat some point throughout their lifetime.
It is an honor to be trusted with such tender information.
Yet, knowing how to respond doesnt always come easy.
As their parent, you model much of what they identify as fair and normal treatment.
Should you shun them or respond in adenigratingmanner, that lets them know such behavior is okay.
Davis expressed this sentiment as well, following up with reminding parents of the importance of leading with love.
The number one thing is unconditional love and support.
[Adjusting] will come in stages, and you will adapt in stages, she shares.
Do one thing at a time, she continued.
When doing this, you remind your child that theyre safe with you.
Jeanne Davis, PMHNP-BC
The number one thing is unconditional love and support.
[Adjusting] will come in stages, and you will adapt in stages.
It is also crucial to remember that your child isnt a different person.
Theyre simplystepping into their identityand trusting you enough to be on the journey with them.
This is still the same person.
The dog or cat isnt looking at them any differently.
Theyre just identifying differently, Davis explains.
What would you like me to call you?
What are yourpronouns?Can I still call you the name I gave you at birth?
Davis mentioned are helpful places to start.
It is also a good idea to learn about who your child has told, Davis continued.
This is just as important for them as it is for you.
You dont want to out your kid without their permission, Davis explained.
Speaking of embracing your child, it is a good idea to learn theterminology of the LGBTQIA+ community.
That being said, you dont have tostuff your fear.
It is incredibly important to seek out your own support; this isnt just a transition for your child.
It is also a transition in your relationship with them and in your identity as a parent.
Some may share this information with others, creating gossip around something that is very tender and sensitive.
Next, find out what LGBTQIA+ policies your childs school has.
While youre at it, you may want to explore what policies exist at your own place of work.
The future is here and our kids are leading the way.
It is our responsibility to join the movement and leave our world a bit better than we found it.
UC Davis.LGBTQIA Resource Center Glossary.
The Trevor Project.National Survey on LGBTQ Mental Health 2021.
The Williams Institute.Homelessness Among LGBT Adults in the US.
