Ask QC: Conflicted About Coming Out

Hi Ask QC,

I’m writing to you because I’m at a crossroads in my life and I’m not sure what to do. I’m 19, a student from a South American country so please excuse my English writing. I still live at home with my parents, who are very religious and as the eldest boy expected to marry a girl, for the family name have children. I’ve known for a long while that I’m gay, but I’ve kept this part of my identity hidden from my friends and family for fear of their reactions and the possible consequences.

I’ve recently started dating someone who is older than me. He’s been incredibly supportive and understanding, but keeping our relationship a secret is becoming increasingly difficult and painful. I long for the day when I can openly share my happiness with those I love, but the thought of coming out terrifies me, especially given my family’s religious beliefs and the cultural attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people in my community.

I’m torn between the desire to be true to myself and the fear of losing the support and love of my family and friends. I worry about the potential backlash, not only socially, but also in my own home. The thought of rejection or disappointment is overwhelming and I’m not sure I’m ready to face the possible consequences of coming out.

I guess what I’m looking for is guidance on how to approach this situation. How do I start having these conversations with my family and friends? Is there a way to gauge their possible reactions without coming out completely? And how can I prepare myself for the range of reactions I might receive?

I understand that coming out is a deeply personal decision and that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but any advice or insights you can offer would be greatly appreciated. I want to live openly and authentically, but I also don’t want to lose the relationships that are important to me.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and to help with advice.

Yours FM (I’ve been a fan of Queerclick for the longest time thanksyou!)

Hi FM and thanks for writing in with your questions and concerns. Coming Out is always a personal and interesting topic to raise, especially as it is important to stay safe in your own circumstances with your countries laws and families religious beliefs. While you are still living at home with your parents and siblings we understand this may be difficult, challenging and not always possible. So dear QC readers, what advice would you give FM? Please share your thoughts, advice and own experiences to help FM, in the QComments section below!

Need advice? Just send in your questions and the QCollective will get you some answers!