Today's post is going to be for my younger LGBTQ audience. I know this is a LGBTQ parenting blog but I felt the need to write about this very important topic. So this one goes out to my baby LGBTQ members. In this post, I am going to talk about the importance of finding a trusted adult. As a part of the LGBTQ community, especially my younger LGBTQ kiddos, it is so important to have the support, love, and guidance from someone in your life to help you through these challenging and confusing times.
Coming out or struggling to understand who you are is a very difficult journey, especially if you feel alone. Having a trusted adult to support you through this time can make all the difference. This adult can be anyone: a teacher, social worker, coach, or even a friendly neighbor. You may have difficulty finding someone in your life who you can trust, but there is always one person who will be your person, you just have to know how to find them.
How to Spot a Trusted Adult
Not all adults in your life are going to readily accept or empathize with what you’re going through. So it’s best to keep an eye out for someone who is:
Open-minded
Someone who is open minded will not judge you about your thoughts, feelings or experiences. This is someone who will be empathetic and willing to listen despite their own thoughts and feelings they may have. These individuals are able to put aside any bias or personal beliefs they have and lend a listening ear.
A Safety Net
An individual who makes you feel safe is incredibly important when looking for a trusted adult. This person is someone who is caring and supportive and will always be there for you know matter what.
Respectful of Boundaries
A trusted adult not only knows what to say, they know what not to say. This person will let you lead the conversations. They will say things like, “you can talk to me if you need me,” or “I’m here whenever you are ready to talk.” They will not push you to do or say something you are not comfortable with and will respect your personal space.
These individuals can help provide you with advice, resources or maybe just a listening ear whenever you need it.
Conclusion
As a member of the LGBTQ community myself, I wished I had someone I could trust while I was struggling in my own skin. I wouldn’t have felt so alone, but I didn’t have the courage to seek out someone who I knew could be open-minded and supportive of my situation. Now I strive to be that person for others and for my own students if they need it.
If you are having difficulty finding a person you can trust in your life, don’t forget to reach out to local LGBTQ organizations or credited online communities and forums. There are so many options out there for you to find just the right person you can confide in.
Please know, you are not alone. There is someone out there who will listen, understand, and provide you with the kindness and love you need to help you love and accept the beautiful person you are and will continue to be.
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