Dealing with unsupportive family members and friends

[Ravenfreak]

Unfortunately members in the LGBTQ community may come across family members or even friends who aren't supportive of who they are as a person. In cases like this, you could try to educate others on the struggles of being part of the community as well as sharing helpful scientific articles but this can be exhausting and lead to depression. It's best to distance yourself from others who may cause you harm or hurt you mentally. Talking to a therapist can help as well. I've cut family members out of my life and honestly it's helped my mental health. If they cannot love you for who you are, it's better to end that toxic relationship.

 

[Nomad]

Family rejection is a major risk factor for mental health struggles in LGBTQ+ people. It increases stress, self-doubt, and even suicidal thoughts.

 

[Commode K]

Any LGBTQ person should first of all build mental fortitude before they come out openly. Knowing that coming out as lesbian, gay or Trans is seen as a societal anomaly, one has to be ready for rejection from family and friends as the knee jerk reaction.

 

[Shree]

It’s incredibly empowering to prioritize your mental health by distancing from unsupportive individuals. Educating others can be helpful, but when it leads to harm, it’s okay to set boundaries. Therapy and finding supportive communities are key to healing and self-acceptance.

 

[eLdavis]

Dealing with unsupportive family members and friends can be challenging and for some it could make them feel unloved which makes them fall into depression in the long run.

 

[Fidelia]

Any LGBTQ person should first of all build mental fortitude before they come out openly. Knowing that coming out as lesbian, gay or Trans is seen as a societal anomaly, one has to be ready for rejection from family and friends as the knee jerk reaction.

That's just it. There is no way that you would force society to accept what has been seen as a taboo for thousands of years. It is better to stay in the closet if you haven't developed mental fortitude to face the backlash that follows coming out openly as gay, bi, lesbian or trans. It even gets worse in my country where they would beat you up if they identify you as gay on the road.