TeenHelp - Coming out to my dad

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Coming out to my dad

I’m bisexual and pretty much everyone knows. I told my mom a few years ago (it went good, I guess. Her job is a teacher so she isn’t homophobic or anything) and I’m ready to tell my dad now. I’m not very nervous, i know he’d take it well, but I don’t think he’d know how to react. ( he Grew up in a conservative household.)
What I’m looking for is ideas on how to come out to him. I can’t just outright tell him, I seize up and get scared (stage fright, I guess.) so any ideas you have would be greatly appreciated. 😊

Re: Coming out to my dad

Hi,

It's great that you think your dad will take it well! That is definitely a good start.

One way to come out is through a letter that you either hand to him or leave where he can see it. I do that sometimes when I am trying to tell someone something difficult. That way, everything I want to say is already said without interruptions or nerves getting in the way. So, it might start out with saying that you are bisexual and you would really appreciate his support. If you don't think he will know what bisexual is, it could help to explain it. If you are open to receiving questions from him, tell him in the letter that you're willing to do so (or that you're not comfortable with it). An alternative to a physical letter could be an email or text message.

If you'd rather tell him verbally, maybe you can write an outline of what you would say to him so you have something to read off of and don't have to think of all the points in the moment?

Do you think your mom would help you come out to him somehow or have suggestions, since she knows what his personality is like?

Good luck!!
Dez

Re: Coming out to my dad

Hi there! :)

First of all, I would like to say that's great to hear that your Mum is so supportive of you and that you would like to now tell your Dad.

Dez actually took the words right out of my Mum. :bleh: Writing a letter or writing down what you would like to tell your Dad and practising what you're going to say might be helpful. Your Mum might be able to help you with what to say and be a supportive person for you.

If you ever need anything, I'm here to talk and good luck!

Re: Coming out to my dad

Thank you guys, so much! Both of your ideas really inspired me.
I think my mom would *probably* help me, if I asked... but I’m not sure, so I think ill go with Dez’s suggestion for writing a letter. To be honest, I feel so supported just by the simple act of your replies. I may not know you, but thank you. [emoji847]

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