For many LGBTs, the “coming out” process includes a period of “acting out”. This may be characterized by expressing your newly found freedom through excessive behavior, like alcohol, drugs, sex or other types of recklessness.

“Acting out” puts added strain on relationships with family members still struggling to come to terms with your “coming out”, and what it means for you, for them and for the entire family. An abrupt change in behavior can create even greater distance between you and family members who thought they knew you so well.

Oftentimes, when someone “comes out” to their parents or family members, the family’s reaction is to “go into the closet”. This is a result of not having the knowledge, support and resources to discuss or process the information.

As an LGBT individual (and friend or family member), to gain understanding & acceptance from others requires your active participation.

• Remember that “Coming out” may be the end of one process for you, but it’s only the beginning of the process for your family
  
  
• Be patient with your family; Trust them; Communicate with them; They need your help and direction to reach the acceptance that you’ve reached.