if you need somebody to talk to right now, call 988.
if you need somebody to talk to right now, call 988.
rejection
Almost from birth, children seem programmed to want their family’s approval. Often, even the toughest, most independent teenager will instinctively reach out for support and reassurance from parents when going through scary moments. Too often, parents are “too busy” to listen when their children need them. Gathering the strength to break the silence with parents is hard, unsure if the love or support they depend on will still be there.
Rejection in any form hurts. Being rejected for who you are by those you love is traumatic. Shaming, blaming, and withdrawing love create wounds in your queer loved one that could take years to heal, or be the start of a serious mental health crisis.
positive parent reactions matter
It’s ok if you don’t know the best way to respond. Even the most well-meaning parent could inadvertently damage their child. But your response may be the most important one in your child’s life. The Strong Family Alliance has some suggestions to start this journey in the right direction.
Learning you are intertwined on this course and communicating openly about the fears and questions you each have will determine the future mental well-being of your loved one.
"We've seen that families can grow and become more supportive once they've learned how their words, actions and behaviors affect their LGBT children."
myths & facts about being queer
Myths such as “homosexuality can be cured,” that it is “a result of bad parenting,” or “it is just a phase,” are so destructive to your queer child. The Strong Family Alliance debunks the most prevalent and damaging myths.
conversion therapy
Conversion therapy is often touted as a “cure” for homosexuality and gender identity. The American Psychiatric Association has made it clear that not only is being LGBTQ+ not a mental disorder, as conversion therapy claims it to be, but that this practice is highly damaging to patients. Several states have outlawed the practice, due to the harmful effects.
