If you’re a parent of a child who identifies as LGBTQ, you know that it can be hard to find the right words to support them. You want to show your love and support, but you don’t know what to say or do.
As a parent, you want your children to be happy and healthy. But if your child is LGBTQ, the challenges can feel bigger and harder to overcome.
1. Ask about their experiences
The best way to support your child’s mental health is to listen and learn what they are going through. Ask them questions about their experiences of coming out, how their friends have reacted and how they feel about it all. Let them know that you want to understand their point of view and that you’ll do everything in your power to help them feel safe and accepted.
2 Listen without judgment
Parents should let children know that they are there for them and listen without judgment if they feel like coming out of the closet or sharing their story with them. The more a person feels accepted by others, the more likely they are to feel comfortable being themselves and sharing who they truly are with others.
3. Be an advocate for LGBTQ rights
Make sure that your child knows that they can count on you when it comes time for them to speak up about LGBTQ issues — whether it be at school or when talking with friends and family members who aren’t supportive of their identity. Make sure that they know that whatever happens, they will always have someone on their side who will fight for them and protect them from harm if necessary.
4 Be supportive
Parents should show their support for LGBTQ children by encouraging them to express themselves freely without fear of judgment from others or from within the family unit itself. This includes telling your child that you love them no matter what gender identity or sexual orientation they identify with